Intelligent Shading Objects with Integrated Computing Device

ABSTRACT

An intelligent shading umbrella comprises a base assembly, an umbrella support assembly coupled to a base assembly, a first memory, a first processor coupled to the first memory, and a computing device, wherein the computing device has a non-volatile memory having computer-readable instructions stored thereon, a second memory, and a second processor. A first processor communicates commands and/or signals to the umbrella support assembly to cause movement of the umbrella support assembly. A second processor, of the computing device, is enclosed within the intelligent shading object fetches computer-readable instructions from the non-volatile memory, loads the computer-readable instructions from the non-volatile memory into the second memory, and executes the computer-readable instructions to communicate with external computing devices and/or to generate commands and/or signals to the first processor to request movements of the umbrella shading assembly.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/333,822, entitled “Automated Intelligent ShadingObjects and Computer-Readable Instructions for Interfacing With,Communicating With and Controlling a Shading Object,” filed May 9, 2016.

BACKGROUND 1. Field

The subject matter disclosed herein relates to an apparatus, methods andsystems for providing shade or protection from weather and morespecifically to an automated intelligent sun shading object or umbrella.In addition, the subject matter disclosed herein relates to a shadingobject computing device including a mobile application that controlsand/or interacts with a shading object.

2. Information/Background of the Invention

Conventional sun shading devices usually are comprised of a supportingframe and an awning or fabric mounted on the supporting frame to cover apredefined area. For example, a conventional sun shading device may bean outdoor umbrella or an outdoor awning.

However, current sun shading devices do not appear to be flexible,modifiable or able to adapt to changing environmental conditions, oruser's desires. Many of the current sun shading devices appear torequire manual operation in order to change inclination angle of theframe to more fully protect an individual from the environment. Further,the current sun shading devices appear to have one (or a single) awningor fabric piece that is mounted to an interconnected unitary frame. Aninterconnected unitary frame may not be able to be opened or deployed inmany situations. Accordingly, alternative embodiments may be desired.Further, current sun shading devices may not have automated assembliesto allow a shading object to track movement of a sun and/or adjust toother environmental conditions. In addition, current sun shading devicesdo not communicate with external shading object related systems.Further, individuals utilizing current sun shading devices are limitedin interactions with users.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive aspects are described with reference tothe following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to likeparts throughout the various figures unless otherwise specified.

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrates a shading object or shading object deviceaccording to embodiments;

FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a stem assembly according toembodiments;

FIG. 3 illustrates a base assembly according to embodiments;

FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of a center support assembly motorcontrol according to embodiments;

FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram of an actuator or deployment motoraccording to embodiments;

FIG. 6 illustrates a shading object with arm support assemblies andarms/blades in an open position and a closed positions;

FIG. 7 illustrates assemblies to deploy arms and/or blades according toembodiments;

FIG. 8 illustrates a block diagram of a movement control PCB accordingto embodiments;

FIG. 9 illustrates a block diagram with data and command flow of amovement control PCB according to embodiments;

FIG. 10 illustrates a shading object or umbrella computing deviceaccording to embodiments;

FIG. 11A illustrates a lighting subsystem according to embodiments;

FIG. 11B illustrates a wireless charging assembly according toembodiments;

FIG. 12 illustrates a power subsystem according to embodiments;

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of multiple components within a shadingobject; and

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of multiple assemblies and components or ashading object or umbrella according to embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are setforth to provide a thorough understanding of claimed subject matter. Forpurposes of explanation, specific numbers, systems and/or configurationsare set forth, for example. However, it should be apparent to oneskilled in the relevant art having benefit of this disclosure thatclaimed subject matter may be practiced without specific details. Inother instances, well-known features may be omitted and/or simplified soas not to obscure claimed subject matter. While certain features havebeen illustrated and/or described herein, many modifications,substitutions, changes and/or equivalents may occur to those skilled inthe art. It is, therefore, to be understood that appended claims areintended to cover any and all modifications and/or changes as fallwithin claimed subject matter.

References throughout this specification to one implementation, animplementation, one embodiment, an embodiment and/or the like means thata particular feature, structure, and/or characteristic described inconnection with a particular implementation and/or embodiment isincluded in at least one implementation and/or embodiment of claimedsubject matter. Thus, appearances of such phrases, for example, invarious places throughout this specification are not necessarilyintended to refer to the same implementation or to any one particularimplementation described. Furthermore, it is to be understood thatparticular features, structures, and/or characteristics described arecapable of being combined in various ways in one or more implementationsand, therefore, are within intended claim scope, for example. Ingeneral, of course, these and other issues vary with context. Therefore,particular context of description and/or usage provides helpful guidanceregarding inferences to be drawn.

With advances in technology, it has become more typical to employdistributed computing approaches in which portions of a problem, such assignal processing of signal samples, for example, may be allocated amongcomputing devices, including one or more clients and/or one or moreservers, via a computing and/or communications network, for example. Anetwork may comprise two or more network devices and/or may couplenetwork devices so that signal communications, such as in the form ofsignal packets and/or frames (e.g., comprising one or more signalsamples), for example, may be exchanged, such as between a server and aclient device and/or other types of devices, including between wirelessdevices coupled via a wireless network, for example.

A network may comprise two or more network and/or computing devicesand/or may couple network and/or computing devices so that signalcommunications, such as in the form of signal packets, for example, maybe exchanged, such as between a server and a client device and/or othertypes of devices, including between wireless devices coupled via awireless network, for example.

In this context, the term network device refers to any device capable ofcommunicating via and/or as part of a network and may comprise acomputing device. While network devices may be capable of sending and/orreceiving signals (e.g., signal packets and/or frames), such as via awired and/or wireless network, they may also be capable of performingarithmetic and/or logic operations, processing and/or storing signals(e.g., signal samples), such as in memory as physical memory states,and/or may, for example, operate as a server in various embodiments.Network devices capable of operating as a server, or otherwise, mayinclude, as examples, dedicated rack-mounted servers, desktop computers,laptop computers, set top boxes, tablets, netbooks, smart phones,wearable devices, integrated devices combining two or more features ofthe foregoing devices, the like or any combination thereof. Asmentioned, signal packets and/or frames, for example, may be exchanged,such as between a server and a client device and/or other types ofnetwork devices, including between wireless devices coupled via awireless network, for example. It is noted that the terms, server,server device, server computing device, server computing platform and/orsimilar terms are used interchangeably. Similarly, the terms client,client device, client computing device, client computing platform and/orsimilar terms are also used interchangeably. While in some instances,for ease of description, these terms may be used in the singular, suchas by referring to a “client device” or a “server device,” thedescription is intended to encompass one or more client devices and/orone or more server devices, as appropriate. Along similar lines,references to a “database” are understood to mean, one or moredatabases, database servers, and/or portions thereof, as appropriate.

It should be understood that for ease of description a network device(also referred to as a networking device) may be embodied and/ordescribed in terms of a computing device. However, it should further beunderstood that this description should in no way be construed thatclaimed subject matter is limited to one embodiment, such as a computingdevice or a network device, and, instead, may be embodied as a varietyof devices or combinations thereof, including, for example, one or moreillustrative examples.

Operations and/or processing, such as in association with networks, suchas computing and/or communications networks, for example, may involvephysical manipulations of physical quantities. Typically, although notnecessarily, these quantities may take the form of electrical and/ormagnetic signals capable of, for example, being stored, transferred,combined, processed, compared and/or otherwise manipulated. It hasproven convenient, at times, principally for reasons of common usage, torefer to these signals as bits, data, values, elements, symbols,characters, terms, numbers, numerals and/or the like. It should beunderstood, however, that all of these and/or similar terms are to beassociated with appropriate physical quantities and are intended tomerely be convenient labels.

Likewise, in this context, the terms “coupled”, “connected,” and/orsimilar terms are used generically. It should be understood that theseterms are not intended as synonyms. Rather, “connected” is usedgenerically to indicate that two or more components, for example, are indirect physical, including electrical, contact; while, “coupled” is usedgenerically to mean that two or more components are potentially indirect physical, including electrical, contact; however, “coupled” isalso used generically to also mean that two or more components are notnecessarily in direct contact, but nonetheless are able to co-operateand/or interact. The term coupled is also understood generically to meanindirectly connected, for example, in an appropriate context. In acontext of this application, if signals, instructions, and/or commandsare transmitted from one component (e.g., a controller or processor) toanother component (or assembly), it is understood that signals,instructions, and/or commands may be transmitted directly to acomponent, or may pass through a number of other components on a way toa destination component. For example, a signal transmitted from a motorcontroller or processor to a motor (or other driving assembly) may passthrough glue logic, an amplifier, and/or an interface. Similarly, asignal communicated through a misting system may pass through an airconditioning and/or a heating module, and a signal communicated from anyone or a number of sensors to a controller and/or processor may passthrough a conditioning module, an analog-to-digital controller, and/or acomparison module.

The terms, “and”, “or”, “and/or” and/or similar terms, as used herein,include a variety of meanings that also are expected to depend at leastin part upon the particular context in which such terms are used.Typically, “or” if used to associate a list, such as A, B or C, isintended to mean A, B, and C, here used in the inclusive sense, as wellas A, B or C, here used in the exclusive sense. In addition, the term“one or more” and/or similar terms is used to describe any feature,structure, and/or characteristic in the singular and/or is also used todescribe a plurality and/or some other combination of features,structures and/or characteristics. Likewise, the term “based on” and/orsimilar terms are understood as not necessarily intending to convey anexclusive set of factors, but to allow for existence of additionalfactors not necessarily expressly described. Of course, for all of theforegoing, particular context of description and/or usage provideshelpful guidance regarding inferences to be drawn. It should be notedthat the following description merely provides one or more illustrativeexamples and claimed subject matter is not limited to these one or moreillustrative examples; however, again, particular context of descriptionand/or usage provides helpful guidance regarding inferences to be drawn.

A network may also include now known, and/or to be later developedarrangements, derivatives, and/or improvements, including, for example,past, present and/or future mass storage, such as network attachedstorage (NAS), cloud storage, a storage area network (SAN), and/or otherforms of computing and/or device readable media, for example. A networkmay include a portion of the Internet, one or more local area networks(LANs), one or more wide area networks (WANs), wire-line typeconnections, one or more personal area networks (PANs), wireless typeconnections, other connections, or any combination thereof. Thus, anetwork may be worldwide in scope and/or extent.

The Internet and/or a global communications network may refer to adecentralized global network of interoperable networks that comply withthe Internet Protocol (IP). It is noted that there are several versionsof the Internet Protocol. Here, the term Internet Protocol, IP, and/orsimilar terms, is intended to refer to any version, now known and/orlater developed of the Internet Protocol. The Internet may include localarea networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), wireless networks,and/or long haul public networks that, for example, may allow signalpackets and/or frames to be communicated between LANs. The term WorldWide Web (WWW or Web) and/or similar terms may also be used, although itrefers to a part of the Internet that complies with the HypertextTransfer Protocol (HTTP). For example, network devices and/or computingdevices may engage in an HTTP session through an exchange ofappropriately compatible and/or compliant signal packets and/or frames.Here, the term Hypertext Transfer Protocol, HTTP, and/or similar termsis intended to refer to any version, now known and/or later developed.It is likewise noted that in various places in this documentsubstitution of the term Internet with the term World Wide Web (Web′)may be made without a significant departure in meaning and may,therefore, not be inappropriate in that the statement would remaincorrect with such a substitution.

Although claimed subject matter is not in particular limited in scope tothe Internet and/or to the Web; nonetheless, the Internet and/or the Webmay without limitation provide a useful example of an embodiment atleast for purposes of illustration. As indicated, the Internet and/orthe Web may comprise a worldwide system of interoperable networks,including interoperable devices within those networks. The Internetand/or Web has evolved to a public, self-sustaining facility that may beaccessible to tens of millions of people or more worldwide. A contentdelivery server and/or the Internet and/or the Web, therefore, in thiscontext, may comprise an service that organizes stored content, such as,for example, text, images, video, etc., through the use of hypermedia,for example. A HyperText Markup Language (“HTML”), for example, may beutilized to specify content and/or to specify a format for hypermediatype content, such as in the form of a file and/or an “electronicdocument,” such as a Web page, for example. An Extensible MarkupLanguage (“XML”) may also be utilized to specify content and/or formatof hypermedia type content, such as in the form of a file or an“electronic document,” such as a Web page, in an embodiment. HTML and/orXML are merely example languages provided as illustrations and intendedto refer to any version, now known and/or developed at another time.Likewise, claimed subject matter is not intended to be limited toexamples provided as illustrations, of course.

Also as used herein, one or more parameters may be descriptive of acollection of signal samples, such as one or more electronic documents,and exist in the form of physical signals and/or physical states, suchas memory states. For example, one or more parameters, such as referringto an electronic document comprising an image, may include parameters,such as time of day at which an image was captured, latitude andlongitude of an image capture device, such as a camera, for example,etc. Claimed subject matter is intended to embrace meaningful,descriptive parameters in any format, so long as the one or moreparameters comprise physical signals and/or states, which may include,as parameter examples, name of the collection of signals and/or states.

Some portions of the detailed description which follow are presented interms of algorithms or symbolic representations of operations on binarydigital signals stored within a memory of a specific apparatus orspecial purpose computing device or platform. In the context of thisparticular specification, the term specific apparatus or the likeincludes a general purpose computer once it is programmed to performparticular functions pursuant to instructions from program software. Inembodiments, a shading object may comprise a shading object computingdevice installed within or as part of a shading object. Algorithmicdescriptions or symbolic representations are examples of techniques usedby those of ordinary skill in the signal processing or related arts toconvey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. Analgorithm is here, and generally, considered to be a self-consistentsequence of operations or similar signal processing leading to a desiredresult. In this context, operations or processing involve physicalmanipulation of physical quantities. Typically, although notnecessarily, such quantities may take the form of electrical or magneticsignals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared orotherwise manipulated.

It has proven convenient at times, principally for reasons of commonusage, to refer to such signals as bits, data, values, elements,symbols, characters, terms, numbers, numerals or the like, and thatthese are conventional labels. Unless specifically stated otherwise, itis appreciated that throughout this specification discussions utilizingterms such as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining” orthe like may refer to actions or processes of a specific apparatus, suchas a special purpose computer or a similar special purpose electroniccomputing device (e.g., such as a shading object computing device). Inthe context of this specification, therefore, a special purpose computeror a similar special purpose electronic computing device (e.g., ashading object computing device) is capable of manipulating ortransforming signals (electronic and/or magnetic) in memories (orcomponents thereof), other storage devices, transmission devices soundreproduction devices, and/or display devices.

In an embodiment, a controller and/or a processor typically performs aseries of instructions resulting in data manipulation. In an embodiment,a microcontroller or microprocessor may be a compact microcomputerdesigned to govern the operation of embedded systems in electronicdevices, e.g., an intelligent, automated shading object, and variousother electronic and mechanical devices. Microcontrollers may includeprocessors, microprocessors, and other electronic components. Controllermay be a commercially available processor such as an Intel Pentium,Motorola PowerPC, SGI MIPS, Sun UltraSPARC, or Hewlett-Packard PA-RISCprocessor, but may be any type of application-specific and/orspecifically designed processor or controller. In an embodiment, aprocessor and/or controller may be connected to other system elements,including one or more memory devices, by a bus. Usually, a processor orcontroller, may execute an operating system which may be, for example, aWindows-based operating system (Microsoft), a MAC OS System X operatingsystem (Apple Computer), one of many Linux-based operating systemdistributions (e.g., an open source operating system) a Solarisoperating system (Sun), a portable electronic device operating system(e.g., mobile phone operating systems), and/or a UNIX operating systems.Embodiments are not limited to any particular implementation and/oroperating system.

The specification may refer to an automated intelligent shading objectas an apparatus that provides shade to a user from weather elements suchas sun, wind, rain, and/or hail. The automated intelligent shadingobject may also be referred to as a parasol, umbrella, sun shade,outdoor shade furniture, sun screen, sun shelter, awning, sun cover, sunmarquee, brolly and other similar names, which may all be utilizedinterchangeably in this application. The shading objects describedherein comprises many novel and non-obvious features. U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/810,380, entitled “Intelligent Shading Objects”,inventor Armen Sevada Gharabegian, filed Jul. 27, 2015, and U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/165,869, filed May 22, 2015,both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

In embodiments, an intelligent shading object may comprise a baseassembly 105, a stem assembly 106, a central support assembly 107(including a lower assembly, a hinge assembly and/or gearbox, and/or anupper assembly), arm support assemblies 108, arms/blades 109, and/or ashading fabric 715. In embodiments, a stem assembly 106 (and a coupledcentral support assembly, arm support assemblies, and/or blades) mayrotate within a base assembly around a vertical axis. In embodiments, anupper assembly of a center support assembly 107 may rotate up to a rightangle with respect to a lower assembly of the center support assembly107 via a gearbox or hinging mechanism, and a second motor. Inembodiments, arm support assemblies 109 may deploy and/or extend from acenter support assembly 107 to open a shading object. In embodiments,detachable arms/blades 109 may be attached or coupled to arm supportassemblies 108. In embodiments, a detachable shading fabric 715 may beattached or coupled to arms/blades 109.

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrates a shading object or shading object deviceaccording to embodiments. In embodiments, a shading object 100 maycomprise a base assembly 105, a stem assembly 106, a center supportassembly 107, one or more supporting arm assemblies 108, one or morearms/blades 109, solar panels and or a shading fabric (not shown). Inembodiments, a stem assembly 106, a center support assembly 107, one ormore supporting arm assemblies 108, and/or one or more arms/blades 109may be referred to as an umbrella support assembly, a shading systembody and/or shading subsystem. In embodiments, a central supportassembly 107 may comprise an upper assembly 112, a lower assembly 113and a hinging assembly and/or gearbox 114, where the hinging assemblyand/or gearbox assembly 114 may connect and/or couple the upper assembly112 to the lower assembly 113. In embodiments, a base assembly 105 mayrest on a ground surface in an outdoor environment. A ground surface maybe a floor, a patio, grass, sand, or other outdoor environmentssurfaces. In embodiments, a stem assembly 106 may be placed into a topportion of a base assembly 105.

FIG. 3 illustrates a base assembly according to embodiments. Inembodiments, a base assembly 300 comprises a base enclosure 302, adetachable stem 304, a stem tip 311, and a weight housing unit 306. Inembodiments, a weight housing unit 306 may comprise a stem support 310,a plurality of weight housing walls 308 and a bottom housing plate 315.In embodiments, a weight housing unit 306 comprises a plurality ofweight wedges 316.

In embodiments, a plurality of weight housing walls 308 may divide aweight housing plate 315 into a plurality of regions. In embodiments, aweight housing plate 315 may be divided into four, six or eight regions.In embodiments, a weight housing plate 315 may be divided into more thanone region (e.g., two or more regions). In embodiments, weight wedges316 may be placed into regions formed by weight housing walls 308 andweight housing plate 316. As is illustrated in FIG. 3, weight wedges mayhave a triangular-baes shape. In embodiments, weight wedges 316 may beformed of steel or stainless steel. In embodiments, weight wedges may becomprised of a solid plastic material. In embodiments, weight wedges 316may include a space for a handle 317. In embodiments, handles 317 mayallow for weight wedges to be carried by a user of a sun shade. Inembodiments, a weight housing unit 305 may include resting supports 320.In embodiments, weight housing supports may allow a weight wedge 316 tonot damage a surface of a weight housing plate 315.

In embodiments, a weight housing wall 308 vary in height. A weighthousing wall 308 may have a low height at a first end (e.g., at anoutside edge of a weight housing unit 306), as illustrated in FIG. 3. Asecond end of a weight housing wall 308 may have a higher height. Asecond end of a weight housing wall 308 be connected and/or coupled to acenter support post 325. In embodiments, two, four or eight weighthousing walls 308 may be connected and/or coupled to a center supportpost 325. In embodiments, a stem support 310 may be attached, coupled,and/or connected to a plurality of weight housing walls 308 and a centersupport post 325. In embodiments, a top surface of a second end of aweighting housing wall 308 and/or a top surface of a center support post325 may be connected to a stem support 310 (e.g., a bottom surface of astem support 310). In embodiments, a stem support 310 may have a holeand/or opening into which a tip 311 may be inserted and/or placed. Inembodiments, a base assembly may comprise and/or be made of a metal. Inembodiments, a base assembly may comprise a lightweight metal, e.g.,aluminum, although other metals may be utilized based on degradation inenvironment where shading object is located. In embodiments, a baseassembly 105 may be made of a composite material, a wood material, or aplastic material, or a combination thereof. In embodiments, a baseassembly 105 may comprise a biodegradable material so that when a baseassembly is thrown away and placed in a landfill or buried, thebiodegradable material may decompose over time.

In embodiments, a base assembly 105 may comprise a battery (e.g., arechargeable battery). In an embodiment, a base battery may be chargedand/or powered by an AC adapter which is connected at one end to abattery (or charging system such as a rectifier and/or a capacitor) andat another end to a wall outlet. In embodiments, a solar chargingassembly and/or a rechargeable battery in a center support assembly 107may provide power (e.g., voltage and/or current) to a battery in a baseassembly 105. In embodiments, a base assembly 105 battery may be abackup and/or secondary battery to a main battery in a center supportassembly 107 (or stem assembly 106).

In embodiments, a base assembly 105 may have an opening (e.g., acircular or oval opening) into which a stem assembly 106 may be placed.FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a stem assembly according toembodiments. In embodiments, a stem assembly may be referred to as anautomatic and/or motorized stem assembly. In embodiments, a stemassembly 106 may comprise a stem body 211 and a first motor assembly. Inembodiments, a first motor assembly may comprise a first motor 212, agear box assembly and/or hinging assembly 213, and/or a first motorcontroller 214. Although a gearbox assembly and/or hinging assembly isdiscussed, other connecting assemblies, gearing assemblies, actuators,etc., may be utilized. In embodiments, a first motor controller 214 mayalso be referred to as a motor driver and within this specification,terms “motor driver” and “motor controller” may be used interchangeably.In embodiments, a first motor controller 214 may receive commands,instructions and/or signals requesting movement of a shading systemaround an azimuth axis. In embodiments, a shading system body 211 mayrotate (e.g., may rotate between 0 and 360 degrees about a vertical axisformed by a base assembly 105, a stem assembly 106, and/or a centralsupport assembly 107). Reference number 140 (FIG. 1B) illustrates arotation of a shading system body about a vertical axis according toembodiments. In embodiments, a shading object stem assembly 106 mayrotate around a vertical axis, such as vertical axis 730 in FIG. 7. Inembodiments, a shading object stem assembly may rotate 360 degrees abouta vertical axis. In embodiments, a shading object stem assembly 106 mayrotate up to 270 degrees and/or 180 degrees about a vertical axis. Inembodiments, a shading object stem assembly 106 may be limited bydetents, stops and/or limiters in an opening of a base assembly 105. Inembodiments, a stem assembly encoder 218 may provide location and/orposition feedback to a first motor controller 214. In other words, anencoder 218 may verify that a certain distance and/or position has beenmoved by a base assembly 105 from an original position. In embodiments,encoders may be utilized in motor systems in order to feedback positionand/or distance information to motor controllers and/or motors to verifya correct position has been turned. In embodiments, encoders may have anumber of positions and/or steps and may compare how much an outputshaft and/or gearbox assembly has moved in order to feedback informationto a motor controller. Encoders may be utilized with any motors and/ormotor controllers in this application. This provides a benefit ascompared to prior art umbrellas and shading objects because theintelligent shading umbrella, due to its rotation (e.g., 360 degreerotation), can orient itself with respect to any position in asurrounding area.

In embodiments, a first motor controller 214 may communicate commandsand/or signals to a first motor 212 to cause movement of an umbrellasupport assembly or shading system body (e.g., a stem assembly 106,central support assembly 107, shading arm supports 108, and/orarms/blades 109) about an azimuth axis. In this illustrative embodiment,a base assembly 105 may remain stationary while the shading system boyrotates within the base assembly 105. In other words, a shading systembody is placed in an opening of a base assembly 105 and rotates whilethe base assembly remains stationary. In embodiments, a first motor 212may be coupled to a gearbox assembly 213. In embodiments, a gearboxassembly 213 may comprise a planetary gearbox assembly. A planetarygearbox assembly may be comprise a central sun gear, a planet carrierwith one or more planet gears and an annulus (or outer ring). Inembodiments, planet gears may mesh with a sun gear while outer ringsteeth may mesh with planet gears. In embodiments, a planetary gearboxassembly may comprise a sun gear as an input, an annulus as an outputand a planet carrier (one or more planet gears) remaining stationary. Inembodiments, an input shaft may rotate a sun gear, planet gears mayrotate on their own axes, and may simultaneously apply a torque to arotating planet carrier that applies torque to an output shaft (which inthis case is the annulus). In embodiments, a planetary gearbox assemblyand a first motor 212 may be connected and/or adhered to a stem assembly105. In embodiments, an output shaft from a gearbox assembly 213 may beconnected to a base assembly 105 (e.g., an opening of a base assembly).In embodiments, because a base assembly 105 is stationary, torque on anoutput shaft of a gearbox assembly 213 may be initiated by a first motor212 to cause a stem assembly 106 to rotate. In embodiments, othergearbox assemblies and/or hinging assemblies may also be utilized toutilize an output of a motor to cause a stem assembly 106 (and hence anumbrella support assembly) to rotate within a base assembly 105. Inembodiments, a first motor 212 may comprise a pneumatic motor. In otherembodiments, a first motor 212 may comprise a servo motor and/or astepper motor.

In embodiments, a stem assembly 106 may be coupled and/or connected to acenter support assembly 107. In embodiments, as mentioned above, a stemassembly 106 and a center support assembly 107 may both be part of anumbrella support assembly. In embodiments, a center support assembly 107may comprise an upper assembly 112, a second gearbox assembly (or alinear actuator or hinging assembly) 114, a lower assembly 113, a secondmotor 121, and/or a second motor controller 122. In embodiments, asecond motor assembly may comprise a second motor controller 122 and asecond motor 121, and maybe a second gearbox assembly or linear actuator114. In embodiments, a center support assembly 107 may also comprise amotor control PCB which may have a second motor controller 122 mountedand/or installed thereon. In embodiments, an upper assembly 112 may becoupled or connected to a lower assembly 113 of the center supportassembly 107 via a second gearbox assembly 113. In embodiments, a secondgearbox assembly 113 and a second motor 121 connected thereto, may beconnected to a lower assembly 113. In embodiments, an output shaft of asecond gearbox assembly 114 may be connected to an upper assembly 112.In embodiments, as a second motor 121 operates and/or rotates, a secondgearbox assembly 114 rotates an output shaft which causes an upperassembly 112 to rotate (either upwards or downwards) at a right anglefrom, or with respect to, a lower assembly 113. In embodiments utilizinga linear actuator as a hinging assembly 114, a steel rod may be coupledto an upper assembly 112 and/or a lower assembly 113 which causes a freehinging between an upper assembly 112 and a lower assembly 113. Inembodiments, a linear actuator 114 may be coupled, connected, and/orattached to an upper assembly 112 and/or a lower assembly 113. Inembodiments, as a second motor 121 operates and/or rotates a steel rod,an upper assembly 112 moves in an upward or downward direction withrespect to a hinged connection (or hinging assembly) 114. Inembodiments, a direction of movement is illustrated by reference number160 in FIG. 1B. In embodiments, a direction of movement may be limitedto approximately a right angle (e.g., approximately 90 degrees). Inembodiments, an upper assembly 112 may move from a position where it isan extension of a lower assembly 113 (e.g., forming a vertical centersupport assembly 107) to a position wherein an upper assembly 112 is ata right angle from a lower assembly 113 (and also approximately parallelto a ground surface). In embodiments, movement may be limited by a rightangle gearbox or right angle gearbox assembly 114. In embodiments, anupper assembly 112 and a lower assembly 113 may be perpendicular to aground surface in one position (as is shown in FIG. 1A), but may move(as is shown by reference number 160) to track the sun (depending onlocation and time of day) so that an upper assembly 112 moves from aperpendicular position with respect to a ground surface to an angularposition with respect to a ground surface and an angular position withrespect to a lower assembly 113. In embodiments, an upper assembly stracking sun movement between a vertical location (top of sky) and ahorizontal location (horizon) and also may depend on time and location.This provides a benefit, as compared to prior art umbrellas, ofautomatically orienting a shading object or umbrella to positions of asun in the sky (e.g., directly overhead, on a horizon as during sunriseand/or sunset).

FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of a center support assembly motorcontrol according to embodiments. A center support assembly 107 furthercomprises a second motor assembly, where a second motor assemblycomprises a second motor controller 410 (which may or may not beinstalled on a shading object movement control PCB) and a second motor412. In embodiments, a second controller 410 may receive commands,signals, and/or instructions from a shading object movement control PCB895 (see FIG. 8), and/or a computing device, to control operation of asecond motor 412. In embodiments, a second controller 410 may generatecommands and/or signals causing a second motor 412 to drive its outputshaft and engage a gearbox assembly 414 (or linear actuator), which inturn causes an upper assembly 112 of a center support assembly 107 torotate and/or move with respect to a lower assembly 113. In embodiments,a second motor or actuator 412 may drive a hinging assembly 414 to movewith respect to a stem assembly 106. In embodiments, an upper assembly112 may move up to 90 degrees (or at a right angle) with respect to alower assembly 113. In embodiments, a second motor or actuator 412 maycomprise a pneumatic motor. In other embodiments, a second motor oractuator 412 may comprise a servo motor and/or a stepper motor. Inembodiments, an encoder may be utilized for feedback of positioninformation to a second motor controller or driver 410.

In embodiments, an upper assembly 112 of a center support assembly 107may further comprise and/or house an arm support assembly 108. Inembodiments, arms and/or blades 109 may be connected, coupled and/orattached to a center support assembly 107. FIG. 6 illustrates a shadingobject with arm support assemblies 108 and arms/blades in an openposition 171 and a closed position 172. FIG. 5 illustrates a blockdiagram of shading object actuator or deployment assembly according toembodiments. In embodiments, an upper assembly 112 of a center supportassembly 107 may further comprise a third motor assembly, an arm drivingassembly, an arm support assembly 108 and/or arms/blades 109. Inembodiments, a third motor assembly may comprise a third motorcontroller 605, a third motor 610, and an arm driving assembly 615. Inembodiments, some of these assemblies may be housed in a lower assembly113. In embodiments, a third motor controller 605, a third motor 610, anarm supporting assembly 108 and/or arm/blade 109 may be housed and/orpositioned in an upper assembly 112, which may be positioned above alower assembly 113 of a center support assembly 107. In embodiments, athird motor 610 may comprise a stator, rotor and shaft/spindle. Inembodiments, a shaft/spindle may be coupled and/or connected to a rod(e.g., a threaded rod). In embodiments, an arm driving assembly 615 maycomprise at least a threaded rod and a collar. In embodiments, athreaded rod may be coupled and/or connected to a collar, and a collarmay have a number of slots to which linked arm supports (e.g., armsupport assembly 108) are linked, coupled or connected. In embodiments,a linear actuator may be coupled in between a third motor controller 605and arm supporting assembly 108. FIG. 7 illustrates assemblies to deployarms and/or blades according to embodiments. In embodiments, armsupports and/or arm supporting assemblies 108 may be coupled to arms,blades or other similar devices. In embodiments, arms, blades, and/orother similar devices 109 may be detachably attached to an arm drivingassembly. A shading fabric may be detachably attached to arms/blade 109and/or arm supporting assembly 108. In an embodiment illustrated in FIG.7, a shading object and/or umbrella may comprise an upper assembly 112of a center support assembly 107, one or more arm support assemblies108, one or more arms/blades 109, on or more solar panels (not shown),and a shading fabric cover 705. In embodiments, a shading fabric cover705 may include fabric fused with flexible solar cells. In embodiments,arm support assemblies 108 (or articulating blades) may be in a restposition inside an upper assembly 112 of a center support assembly 108(e.g., a recess or a recessed channel in an upper assembly 112). As isillustrated in FIG. 7, arm support assemblies 108 may be connected to atop end 710 (or upper section) of an upper assembly 112 of a centersupport assembly 107. In embodiments, arms/blades 109 may be attached,adhered, fastened, and/or connected to arm support assemblies 108 (e.g.,articulation blades). As illustrated in FIG. 7, arm support assemblies108 and/or arms/blades 109 may have holes or openings and a fastener orconnector may be used to attach and/or fasten the arm support assemblies108 to the arms/blades 109. In embodiments, arm support assemblies 108and/or arms/blades 109 made be adhered together, fastened together,welded together, or may be snapped together to fit. In embodiments, afabric cover 715 may be connected, adhered, and/or fastened toarms/blades 109. In embodiments, a fabric cover 715 may includeintegrated flexible solar panels. In embodiments, integrated flexiblesolar panels may be placed in a weather proof housing 735 in a fabriccover 715 and/or in a weather proof housing in arms/blades 109. Inembodiments, when arm support assemblies are deployed to an openposition, the arm support assemblies 108 may move in a direction asshown by reference number 720 and 725. In other words, arm supportassemblies 108 (and thus the attached arms/blades 109) move at an anglewith respect to a vertical axis coming out of a center support assembly107. In embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 7, a vertical axis isrepresented by reference number 730.

In embodiments, a third motor controller (or motor driver) 605 mayreceive commands, signals, and/or instructions from a shading objectmovement control PCB 895 (and/or a shading object computing device 860)to control operation of a third motor 610. In embodiments, a third motorcontroller 605 may generate commands and/or signals causing a thirdmotor 610 to drive its outside shaft and engage a gearbox assembly 615(or linear actuator or gearing assembly), which in turn causes movementof a linked arm support assemblies 108. In embodiments, a linearactuator may incorporate a motor. In embodiments, a potentiometer mayact as a control device to limit how much arm support assemblies 108deploy or move away from an upper assembly 112 of a center supportassembly 107. In embodiments, for example, a potentiometer may feedbackhow far and/or much arm support assemblies 108 have been deployed and/ormay stop deployment or movement when a predefined distance is reached(or when a full deployment distance is reached). In embodiments, a thirdmotor 610 may comprise a pneumatic motor. In other embodiments, a thirdmotor 610 may comprise a servo motor and/or a stepper motor.

In embodiments, a rotation of a shaft/spindle of a third motor 610 maybe transmitted to a threaded rod. In embodiments, a rotation may betransmitted accordingly to a gearing ratio in order to reduce speedtransferred to a threaded rod. In embodiments, a gearbox assembly (orlinear actuator) may be located between an output shaft of a third motor610 and may establish a gearing ratio in order to generate necessarytorque. In embodiments, a threaded rod is rotated about its own axis andis coupled to a collar via a nut or other fastener. In embodiments, athreaded rod's rotation may cause a collar (or vertical movementassembly) to rotate and/or move in a vertical direction (e.g., in an upor down direction). A movement of a collar in a vertical direction maycause one or more linked arm support assemblies 108 to be moved outwardfrom a shaft of a center support assembly 107 in order to deploy one ormore linked arm support assemblies 108 in an open position (extendoutwards and away from an upper assembly 112. Once one or more linkedarm supports are extended and/or deployed, a shading fabric may beattached to arms/blades 109 and/or linked arm supports 108 of theshading system. In embodiments, a shading fabric 715 may be connected toarms/blades 109 and/or linked arm supports (support assemblies 108)before linked arm supports are deployed and/or extended. In thisillustrative embodiment, deployment of one or more linked arm assemblies108 results in stretching of a shading fabric 715 between one or morearms/blades 109 and/or linked arm support assemblies 108. Inembodiments, a shading object may be ready for use to provide shade fora user in an outdoor environment.

Similarly, if a shading object is to be placed in a rest or closedposition, in embodiments, a third motor 610 output shaft may be rotatedin an opposite direction. In embodiments, a threaded rod may be rotatedin an opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise), and a collar (orvertical movement assembly), which may be coupled and/or connected tothe threaded rod, may move in a downward direction. One or more linkedarm support assemblies 108, which are linked, coupled, and/or connectedto the collar on one end and blades/arms 109 on another end, will dropand/or move from an extended position to an at rest position. Inembodiments, a shading object or umbrella may have a plurality ofvertical movement assemblies (e.g., collars) linked separately to aplurality of arm support assembles. In embodiments, linked arms supportsmay not need to be extended and/or moved together. In embodiments, aseparate motor may be connected to one or more linear actuators, whichin turn may be linked to a corresponding arm support assembly, so thateach of corresponding arm support assemblies may be moved independently.

In embodiments, the linked arm supports (or support assemblies) 108 maycome to rest inside a center support assembly 107 of a shading object.In other words, the linked arm supports or linked arm support assemblies108 may contract or come to rest into and/or inside channels of a centersupport assembly 107 of the shading object. In embodiments, one or morelinked arm support assemblies 108 may rest or be housed in channels ofan upper assembly 112 or a center support assembly 107, which providesfor convenient storage of arm support assemblies. In embodiments, ashading object may comprise between one and 20 linked arm supportassemblies 107 and/or arms/blades 108.

In embodiments, a shading object central support may comprise one ormore shading object arm support assemblies 108 that are deployed outwardfrom a shading object central support 107. In embodiments, shadingobject blades/arms 109 may be attached and/or connected, respectively,to a shading object central support arm assembly 107. In embodiments,shading object arms/blades 109 may be detachably connected to a shadingobject arm support assembly 108. In embodiments, a detachable couplingmay occur after shading object arms support assemblies 108 have beenopened and/or deployed. In embodiments, shading object arms or blades109 may be coupled and/or connected to shading arm support assemblies108 and rest inside a shading object central support assembly 107 untildeployment. In embodiments, shading object arms/blades may comprise anyshape (e.g., rectangular, triangular, circular). In embodiments, shadingobject arms/blades may have openings in a shape (e.g., rectangle and/ortriangle) rather than being a solid price of material. In embodiments,shading arms/blades may form a frame onto which a shading object isattached. In embodiments, a shading object central support may comprisebetween 1-10 shading object arm supports and 1-20 shading object bladesand/or arms). In embodiments, one or more shading object arms maycomprise fasteners and/or connectors. In embodiments, a shading fabricmay be connected and/or attached to shading arm connectors and/orfasteners. In embodiments, a shading fabric 715 may be connected and/orattached to shading arms after deployment of shading arm supports. Inembodiments, a shading fabric 715 may be connected and/or attached toshading arms before shading arms are connected to the shading armsupport assemblies.

FIG. 8 illustrates a block diagram of hardware and/or combinedhardware/software assemblies in a shading object according toembodiments. In embodiments, a shading object or umbrella may not haveone, more than one, or all of listed shading object components and/orassemblies. In embodiments, as is illustrated in FIG. 8, a shadingobject or intelligent umbrella may comprise a telemetry printed circuitboard (PCB) comprising a processor 805, a weather variable PCBcomprising a processor 810, a voice recognition PCB and/or engine 815, arechargeable battery 820, and one or more solar panels and/or solarpanel arrays 825. In embodiments, a shading object and/or umbrella maycomprise a power tracking solar charger 830, a power input or powersource (e.g., AC adapter assembly) 835, a lighting assembly 870, anaudio system 875 and/or a shading object computing device 860. Inembodiments, a shading object may include an obstacle detection module855, a motion sensor 845, a proximity sensor 840, a tilt sensor 855, apersonal area network communications module or transceiver 865, a firstmotor controller and motor (azimuth motor and controller) 880, a secondmotor controller and motor (elevation motor and controller) 885, and athird motor controller and motor (an actuator motor and controller) 890.In embodiments, a weather variable PCB 810 may be coupled and/orconnected to one or more air quality sensors 811, UV radiation sensors812, a digital barometer sensor 813, a temperature sensor 814, ahumidity sensor 816, and/or a wind speed sensor 817. In embodiments, awind sensor 817 may be a thermistor. In embodiments, a telemetry PCB 805may be coupled and/or connected to a GPS/GNSS sensor 807 and/or adigital compass 808.

In embodiments, a shading object or intelligent umbrella may comprise atelemetry printed circuit board (PCB) comprising a processor 805 and thetelemetry PCB may provide potential location and orientationinformation. In embodiments, a weather variable PCB comprising aprocessor 810 may provide sensor weather variables surrounding a shadingobject and/or umbrella. In embodiments, a wind sensor 817 may detect ahigh wind conditions, generate signals, and an umbrella movement controlPCB 895 may generate signals and/or commands causing arm supportassemblies to close or move to a closed position. In embodiments, avoice recognition engine or module 815 may enable control of a shadingobject via voice commands and/or a microphone. In embodiments, a voicerecognition engine or module 815 may generate voice responses and/oraudible warnings. In embodiments, a rechargeable battery 820 may becharged or powered by an AC adapter, a DC adapter, and/or an array ofsolar cells 825, which provide power (e.g., current and/or voltage) to apower tracking solar charger 830 and other assemblies and/or components.In embodiments, a power tracking solar charger 830 may regulate andbalance a charging process. In addition, a power tracking solar charger830 may provide data and/or information regarding a charging state. Inembodiments, an AC adapter 835 and/or a DC adapter may plug into a powersource (e.g., a wall outlet and/or a generator).

In embodiments, a proximity sensor 840 may identify location of a personrelative to moving components of a shading object or umbrella. Inembodiments, a motion sensor 845 may detect and/or identify a presenceof an individual in an area around a shading object or umbrella. Inembodiments, an obstacle detector 850 may detect presence of a personand/or object in a shading object's path of travel. In embodiments, atilt sensor 855 may detect movement and/or relocation of a shadingobject and/or umbrella with respect to a correct position. Inembodiments, a personal area network (PAN) (e.g., Bluetooth) module 865and/or transceiver may provide short distance communication forapplication based control, audio sound transmission and/or dataprocessing and/or retrieval. In embodiments, a lighting assembly 870 mayprovide and/or project light for a shading object and/or an area arounda shading object. In embodiments, an audio system 875 may provide orgenerate audio playback through a mobile application of WiFi stream orthrough a PAN (e.g., Bluetooth) transceiver 865.

In embodiments, a shading object or umbrella may comprise one or moreprinted circuit boards. Although a description may reference a specificprinted circuit board, many of features or functions of a shading objector umbrella may be implemented utilizing components mounted on a single,two or three circuit boards. In addition, one or more components may bemounted on printed circuit boards, which results in a large number ofcircuit boards within a shading object or umbrella. In other words, anumber of circuit boards may be utilized to provide features and/orfunctions of a shading object and/or umbrella although embodimentsdescribed herein may only describe a specific number. Although the term“circuit board” or “printed circuit board” is utilized, any electronicdevice allowing installation on and communicate with components may beutilized along with circuit board. As used in this specification, theterms “printed circuit board” and “PCB” are intended to refer generallyto any structure used to mechanically support and electrically connectelectronic components using conductive pathways, tracks, or signaltraces etched from (e.g., copper) sheets laminated onto a non-conductivesubstrate. Synonyms for printed circuit boards include printed wiringboards and etched wiring boards.

In embodiments, a shading object and/or umbrella may comprise one ormore printed circuit boards. In embodiments, a shading object orumbrella 800 may comprise a movement control PCB 895, a shading objectcomputing device or computing device PCB 860, a first motor PCB (azimuthcontrol) 880, a second motor PCB (elevation control) 885, a third motorPCB (actuation/deployment control) 890, a telemetry PCB (location andorientation data/information collection) 805, and/or a weather variablePCB (environmental sensor data/information collection) 810.

In embodiments, a telemetry PCB 805 comprises a processor, a memory, aGPS receiver and/or transceiver and/or a compass (e.g. a digital)compass). The GPS receiver and/or compass provides location andorientation information and/or measurements which may be transferred toa memory utilizing a processor. In embodiments, a telemetry PCBprocesses and conditions the communicated information and/ormeasurements. In embodiments, a telemetry PCB 805 communicatesmeasurements and/or additional information (e.g., in some cases,measurements are conditioned and processed and in some cases,measurements are raw data) to a shading object movement control PCB 895which analyzes the received location and/or orientation information andmeasurements.

In embodiments, a weather variable PCB 810 comprises a processor, amemory, an air quality sensor, a UV radiation sensor, a barometer, atemperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and/or a wind speed sensor. Oneor more of the listed sensors may generate environmental and/or weathermeasurements and/or information, which may be transferred to a memoryutilizing a processor. In embodiments, a weather variable PCB 810processes and conditions information and measurements from the one ormore sensors. In embodiments, a weather variable PCB 810 communicatesreceived environmental and/or weather sensor measurements (e.g., in somecases conditioned and processed and in some cases raw data) to a shadingobject movement control PCB 895 which analyzes the received locationand/or orientation information and measurements.

In embodiments, a center support assembly 107 may comprise an umbrellamovement control PCB 895, as well as an integrated computing device PCB860. In embodiments, a movement control PCB 895 may also be located in astem assembly 106 and/or a base assembly 105. In embodiments, otherterms may be utilized in place of circuit board, such as printed circuitboard, a flexible circuit board, and/or an integrated circuit. Inembodiments, an umbrella movement control PCB 895 may consume a lowamount of power and may be referred to as a low-power PCB. Inembodiments, this may prove to be a benefit as compared to prior-artumbrellas which utilized a large amount of power and thus needed to havepower from a power source and could not be powered by an array of solarcells providing power to a solar power charger 830. In embodiments, asolar array may provide enough provide power to power components on anumbrella movement control PCB 895. In this case, for example, componentsand associated activities controlled by an umbrella movement circuit PCB895 may not consumer large amounts of power because these activities donot require continuous operation and may only receive information ormeasurements on a periodic basis. As an example, an intelligent shadingobject 800 may not be rotating and/or tilting frequently. Thus, inembodiments, therefore, sensors providing these measurements (e.g., atilt sensor or sunlight sensor), and a movement control PCBcommunicating these measurements may not need to be in an active stateat all times, which results in significant power usage savings for ashading object and/or controller. In embodiments, a motion control PCB895 may comprise a processor 896, a non-volatile memory 897, a volatilememory, and many other components described above and below. Inembodiments, for example, computer-readable instructions may be fetchedfrom a non-volatile memory 897, loaded into a volatile memory 898, andexecuted by a processor 896 to perform actions assigned to, controlledand/or commanded a motion control PCB 895. In embodiments, non-volatilememory may be flash memory, ASIC, ROMs, PROMs, EEPROMs, solid statememory, CD, DVD, persistent optical storage or magnetic storage media.

In embodiments, as a further example, shading object motors, e.g., afirst motor (azimuth movement motor), a second motor (elevation movementmotor), and/or a third motor (articulation or actuator movement motor)may not be utilized frequently, so there does not need to be a largeamount of power utilized by these motors within a shading object. Inembodiments, when motors and/or motor assemblies are operating, themotors may require 2 to 3 amps. If system is idle and for example, theshading computer is not operating, an intelligent shading object mayonly require 180 milliamps. If an audio system is operating, e.g., musicis playing and the amplifier and speakers are being utilized, only400-500 milliamps, In addition, motor controllers may not be utilizedfrequently since the motor controllers may not be driving and/or sendingcommands, instructions, and/or signals to motors frequently. Thus, alow-power movement control PCB 895 may provide a shading object ownerwith power usage savings and efficiency.

In embodiments, readings and/or measurements from sensors may cause amovement control PCB 895 to transmit commands, instructions, and/orsignals to either a first motor control PCB 880 (azimuth movement), asecond motor control PCB 885 (elevation movement), and/or a third motorcontrol PCB 890 (actuation movement), in order to cause specificmovements of different assemblies of a shading object or umbrella. Forexample, in embodiments, a GPS transceiver 806 may receive GPS signalsand provide GPS measurements (e.g., values representative of alongitude, latitude, and/or an altitude reading) to a movement controlPCB 895. In embodiments, a movement control PCB 895 may analyze the GPSmeasurements and determine that a shading object should be moved to aspecific elevation. In other words, in embodiments, a movement controlPCB 895 may utilize GPS generated measurements to direct a second motorassembly to move to a proper elevation. In embodiments, GPS measurements(coordinates and time) identify a proper elevation of the sun based on ageographic location. In embodiments after center support assembly 107 ismoved to a position identified by GPS measurements, arm supportassemblies 108 may be extend and the arms and/or blades 109 may be fullydeployed. In embodiments, a movement control PCB 896 may communicatecommands, instructions, and/or signals to a second motor control PCB 885to cause an upper assembly 112 of a center support assembly 107 torotate or move approximately 45 degrees in a downward direction withrespect to a lower assembly 113 of the center support assembly. Inembodiments, continuing with this illustrative embodiment, a movementcontrol PCB 895 may communicate commands, instructions, and/or signalsto a third motor control PCB to fully extend arm support assemblies 108(e.g. articulating blades/assemblies) and also arms/blades 109.

In embodiments, a digital compass 807 may generate a heading and/ororientation measurement and a telemetry PCB 805 may communicate aheading and/or orientation measurement to a movement control PCB 895. Inembodiments, a movement control PCB 895 may analyze a headingmeasurement and generate and/or communicate commands, instructions,and/or signals to a first control PCB 880 to rotate a stem assembly 106and a center support assembly 107 (e.g., an umbrella support assembly)to face or move the shading object towards a light source (e.g., a sun).In embodiments, digital compass measurements may be utilized asdirectional input for an azimuth (or first motor). In embodiments, amovement control PCB 895 may calculate counts and/or limits for motorsto properly orient an intelligent shading object based on GPSmeasurements and/or digital compass measurements. Continuing with thisembodiment, a movement control PCB 895 may generate and/or communicatecommands, instructions, and/or signals to a third motor controller PCB890 to cause arm support assemblies 108 to be extended or deployed alongwith arms/blades 109.

In embodiments, a wind speed sensor 817 may generate measurements and avariable weather PCB 810 may communicate measurements to a shadingobject movement control PCB 895. In embodiments, a movement control PCB895 may analyze and/or compare communicated measurements to a thresholdin order to determine if unsafe conditions are present. In embodiments,for example, if a wind speed threshold is reached or exceeded,identifying an unsafe condition, a movement control PCB 895 maycommunicate commands, instructions, and/or signals to move shadingobject assemblies to a rest position. Continuing with this illustrativeexample, a movement control PCB 895 may communicate commands orinstructions or signals to a second movement control PCB to cause anupper assembly 112 to move to an original position (e.g., at restposition), which may be where an upper assembly 112 is a verticalextension of a lower assembly 113. In embodiments, a movement controlPCB 895 may communicate instructions, commands and/or signals to a thirdmotor control PCB 890 to move arm support assemblies 108 back into anupper assembly and/or retract arm support assemblies 108 into channelsof an upper assembly 112. In embodiments, a movement control PCB 895 maycommunicate commands, instructions and/or signals to a soundreproduction system 875 and/or a display device to warn a user of unsafewind conditions.

In embodiments, a first motor control PCB 880, a second motor controlPCB 885, a third motor control PCB 890 and a movement control PCB 895may be connected to each other via wires and/or traces and instructionsmay, commands and/or signals may be communicated via wires and/ortraces. In embodiments, the motor control PCBs 880, 885 and 890 maycommunicate with a movement control PCB 895 via a personal area networkcommunications protocol, e.g., Bluetooth. In embodiments, a weathervariable PCB 810 and/or a telemetry PCB 805 may communicate with amovement control PCB 895 via wires, traces, integrated circuits, and/orinterfaces and communicate instructions, commands or signals. Inembodiments, a weather variable PCB 810 and a telemetry PCB 805 maycommunicate with a movement control PCB 895 via personal area networkprotocols (utilizing a PAN transceiver—e.g., a Bluetooth transceiver).In embodiments, motor control PCBs 880 885 890 may communicate directly(either via wires or a wireless communication protocol) with a weathervariable PCB 810 and/or a telemetry PCB 805 without utilizing acomputing device 860 and/or a movement control PCB 895.

In embodiments, as described above, a shading object may comprise acomputing device PCB, which may comprise a shading object computingdevice 860. In embodiments, a shading object may comprise a shadingobject computing device 860 which is not installed and/or mounted on acomputing device PCB. In embodiments, a shading object computing device860 and/or a computing device PCB may consume a larger amount of power(with respect to movement control PCB 895) due to activities it isresponsible for executing being performed more frequently and/or with ahigher data throughput. In embodiments, an integrated computing device860 may be responsible for camera control, video and/image processing,external Wi-Fi communication, e.g., such as operating as a hot spot, aswell as running various software applications associated with theintelligent shading object and/or umbrella. The computing device 860,because of operating and being responsible for more data intensivefeatures and/or functions, may require more processing power due toextended operation and continuous data throughput. In embodiments, acomputing device may be integrated into a center support assembly 107.In embodiments, a computing device may be integrated into a baseassembly and/or a stem assembly.

FIG. 9 illustrates a block diagram of a movement control PCB accordingto embodiments. Returning back to discussion of a movement control PCB,in embodiments, a movement control PCB 895 may comprise aprocessor/controller 905, a proximity sensor 910, a motion sensor 915, atilt sensor 920, a personal area network transceiver 930, an audioreceiver 935 (optional), one or more speakers 940, and/or a memory 950having umbrella or shading object control software (e.g., executableinstructions stored in a non-volatile memory 951 and executable by aprocessor 905). In embodiments, an umbrella movement control PCB 895 maycomprise a USB transceiver 960. In embodiments, an umbrella movementcontrol PCB 895 may comprise sensor interface subsystem 955 forcommunicating sensor measurements to an umbrella movement control PCB895 and communicate commands and/or signals from and two to externalsensors. In embodiments, a sensor interface subsystem 955 may belocated, or may also be located on a telemetry PCB 805, a weathervariable PCB 810, and/or first, second, or third motor control PCBs 880,885, and 890. For example, in embodiments, an intelligent shading objectand/or umbrella may also include a signal conditioning subsystem whichmay also be referred to as a sensor interface system and the terms maybe utilized interchangeably throughout the specification. Inembodiments, an intelligent shading object and/or umbrella (and thesignal conditioning subsystem) may further comprise one or morereference signal modules, one or more signal conditioning modules, andone or more analog-to-digital converters. In an embodiment, one or moresensors (e.g., air quality sensor 811, UV radiation sensor 812, windspeed sensor 817, motion sensor 845, tilt sensor 855) may receivecommunicated analog signals and may transmit analog signals to signalconditioning modules 955. In embodiments, a signal conditioning module955 may process and/or condition communicated analog sensor signals.Although signals are described as being analog, the description hereinequally applies to digital signals. In embodiments, one or more signalconditioning modules may communicate and/or transfer processed and/orconditioned signals to one or more A-to-D converters. In embodiments,one or more signal reference modules may be a non-volatile memory, orother storage device, that stores and/or retrieves signal values thatthe communicated signal values may be compared to in order to determineif threshold conditions may be met. In embodiments, a comparison ofcommunicated signal values to reference signal values may allow theshading object signal conditioning system to understand if normalconditions are being experienced by an intelligent shading object and/orumbrella, or if an intelligent shading object subsystem may beexperiencing abnormal conditions, (e.g., high humidity, high movement,high wind, and/or bad air quality)

In embodiments, an umbrella movement control PCB 895 may comprise aproximity sensor 840. In embodiments, a proximity sensor 840 may be ableto detect a presence of nearby objects, (e.g., people or other physicalobjects) without any physical contact between a sensor and an object. Inembodiments, for example, a proximity sensor 840 may emit anelectromagnetic field and/or a beam of electromagnetic radiation (e.g.,an infrared beam, for example), and monitor for changes in theelectromagnetic field and/or a return signal of the electromagneticradio return beam. In embodiments, a proximity sensor 840 be located onand/or mounted on a movement control PCB 895. In embodiments, aproximity sensor 840 may be located on and/or mounted on other printedcircuit boards or may be a standalone component in a shading objectsystem. In embodiments, a proximity sensor 840 may be located within acenter support assembly 107. In embodiments, a proximity sensor 840 maygenerate measurements and/or signals, which may be communicated to aprocessor/controller 905 in a movement control PCB 895. In embodiments,an umbrella movement control board 905 may store communicatedmeasurements and/or signals, which has instructions stored thereon. Inembodiments, proximity sensor software instructions, which are fetchedfrom memory 950 and executed by a processor 905, may perform and/orexecute a proximity process or method. In embodiments, for example, aproximity process may comprise receiving measurements and/or signalsfrom a proximity sensor 840 indicating an object and/or person may belocated in an area where a shading object is deployed, going to bedeployed and/or extended, and/or towards where a component of a shadingobject may be moving. For example, if an individual is located in anarea where arm support assemblies may be deployed and/or extended, aproximity sensor 840 may transmit a signal or measurement indicating anobject may be an obstruction to, for example, a movement control PCB895. In embodiments, a processor/controller 905 in a movement controlPCB may receive and/or analyze a proximity measurement and determine anobject may be an obstacle. In embodiments, a proximity signal and/orcommand may also identify a location of an object (e.g., obstacle) inrelation to a proximity sensor 840 and/or some reference location. Inembodiments, a processor of a movement control PCB may generate and/orcommunicate a driving signal, command, and/or instruction that instructsa shading object not to deploy and/or open. In embodiments, for example,a processor/controller 905 in a movement control PCB 895 may communicatea signal and/or commands to a third motor controller to cause the thirdmotor to stop moving the arm support assembly 108 due to an obstacledetection. In embodiments, for example, a movement control PCB 895 maycommunicate a signal and/or commands to a second motor controller asecond motor (articulating and/or elevation motor) to cause a secondmotor to stop moving an gearbox assembly and/or actuator and prevent anupper assembly 112 of a center support assembly from moving into an areawhere an obstacle is detected. In embodiments, this may also work in theopposite direction, where if a proximity sensor 840 does not determinethat an object is within a shading object area, then a proximity sensorsignal may not be communicated to the processor/controller 905 in amovement control PCB 895.

In embodiments, an umbrella movement control PCB 895 may comprise amotion sensor 845. In embodiments, a motion sensor 845 may generate asignal and/or measurement indicating that an individual, a livingorganism, or an object is within an area covered by a motion sensor 845.For example, a motion sensor 845 may generate a signal if an individualand/or object is approaching a shading object and/or umbrella, is within5 or 10 feet of an umbrella, or is moving within a shading area. Inembodiments, a motion sensor 845 may be located on and/or mounted on amovement control PCB 895. In embodiments, a motion sensor 845 may belocated on and/or mounted on other printed circuit boards or may be astandalone component in a shading object system. In embodiments, amotion sensor 845 may be located within a center support assembly 107.In embodiments, a motion sensor 845 may generate measurements and/orsignals, which may be communicated to a processor/controller 905 in amovement control PCB 895. In embodiments, an umbrella movement controlboard 905 may store communicated measurements and/or signals, in amemory 950. In embodiments, motion sensor software instructions, may befetched from memory 950 and executed by a processor 905, and may cause aprocessor 905 to perform and/or execute a motion detection process ormethod. In embodiments, for example, a motion detection process maycomprise receiving measurements and/or signals from a motion sensor 845indicating an object and/or person may be moving in an area where ashading object and/or umbrella is deployed, near where a shading objectis located, and/or where a component of a shading object may be moving.In embodiments, if an individual's or object's movement is detected by amotion sensor, a controller/processor 905 may generate a signalinstructing or commanding certain shading object components to beactivated, deployed, and/or retracted. For example, if an individual'smovement is detected during a night or darkness period, a processor maygenerate signals, instructions, or commands, to shading objectcomponents in reaction to the movement (e.g., commands, instructions,and/or signals) may be transmitted to a lighting system or assembly 870to turn on lights of a shading object lighting system; commands may betransmitted to an audio system 875 to activate and/or turn on an audioreceiver and/or audio system and transmit a warning that an individualis near a shading object; and/or commands may be transmitted to a thirdmotor controller 890 to cause a motor to open one or more of the armsupport assembles 109 and open a shading object to startle an intruder.Further, in embodiments, one or more commands may be communicated to oneor more cameras 857 to activate one or more cameras to capture images ofan area around a shading object. In embodiments, if a motion sensor 845detects movement away from a shading object, a motion sensor 845 maycommunicate commands, signals, and/or instructions to acontroller/processor 905 in a movement control PCB 895, which in turnmay turn off components and/or retract assemblies of a shading object.

In embodiments, an umbrella movement control PCB 895 may comprise one ormore tilt sensors 855. In embodiments, a tilt sensor 855 can measure atilting in one or more axes of a reference plane. In embodiments, forexample, a tilt sensor 855 may comprise an accelerometer to measure tiltangle with reference to an earth's ground plane. In embodiments, a tiltsensor 855 may be placed on a center support assembly 107 of a shadingobject (either an upper assembly 112 and/or a lower assembly 113), maybe placed on a fabric shading 715, or may be placed on arms/blades 109.In embodiments, a tilt sensor 855 may measure an angle of incident froma reference axis. In embodiments, a reference axis may be an axis of ashading object at rest, a deployment angle (e.g., if a shading object isdeployed at a 45 degree angle and thus the shading cover/object isdeployed at approximately 45 degrees also, a tilt sensor 855 may beconfigured to determine it a title sensor 855 moves past a specificangle). In embodiments, a tilt sensor 855 may generate measurementsindicating an angle with reference to a ground plane. In embodiments, atilt sensor 855 may communicate measurements to a processor/controller905 in a movement control PCB 895. In embodiments, an umbrella movementcontrol board 895 may store communicated measurements and/or signals, ina memory 950. In embodiments, tilt sensor software instructions, may befetched from memory 950 and executed by a processor 905, and may cause aprocessor 905 to perform and/or execute a tilt detection process ormethod. In embodiments, for example, a tilt detection process maycomprise receiving tilt sensor measurements and compare the communicatedtilt sensor measurements to reference measurements. If received tiltsensor measurements are greater than a reference measurement threshold,then a controller/processor 905 may generate a signal, command orinstruction and communicate the signal, command or instruction to anassembly and/or component to adjust an orientation and/or deployment ofshading object. For example, if a tilt sensor 855 indicates that ashading fabric is deployed at a 50 degree angle from a reference axis,but that a maximum shading fabric deployment is 45 degrees from areference axis, then a controller/processor 905 may generate anadjustment signal, command and/or instruction to cause an elevationand/or second motor or a actuator and/or third motor to move a shadingobject to a correct position.

In embodiments, an umbrella movement control PCB 895 may comprise anaudio/video transceiver 865, a stereo amplifier 875, and/or one or moresound reproducers (e.g., speakers) 875. In embodiments, an audio/videotransceiver 865 may be a Bluetooth Audio MP3 transceiver. Inembodiments, an audio/video transceiver 875 may receive wirelesslytransmitted audio and/or video signals from an audio source such as aportable electronic device, a cellular phone, an iPod, an audio player,and/or a personal computer. In embodiments, a wireless transmissionprotocol may be a Bluetooth protocol for transmitting audio/video,although other protocols may be utilized. In embodiments, a portableelectronic device may establish a communications channel by pairing withan audio/video transceiver, e.g., utilizing a Bluetooth protocol, in ashading object. In embodiments, an audio/video transceiver 865 may belocated in a central support assembly 107. In embodiments, anaudio/video transceiver 865 may be placed on or mounted on a motioncontrol PCB 895 although it may be placed anywhere within a shadingobject and/or as a separate unit. In embodiments, a shading objectcomputing device 860 may comprise an audio/video transceiver 865. Inembodiments, an audio/video transceiver 865 may be located on a shadingobject computing device 860 because this activity and/or featurerequires more energy and/or use than other components located on amovement control PCB. In embodiments, where users may be streamingaudio/video for a long period of time, locating an audio/videotransceiver on a computing device 860 may be more efficient. Inembodiments, an audio/video transceiver 865 may communicate a receivedaudio signal to one or more speakers 875 for reproduction of sound. Inembodiments, an audio/video transceiver 865 may communicate a receivedaudio signal to a stereo amplifier 875 and an amplified audio signal maybe transmitted to one or more speakers 875 for reproduction of sound.

FIG. 11A illustrates a lighting subsystem according to embodiments. Inembodiments, a shading object may comprising a lighting subsystem 870.In embodiments, a shading object central support assembly 107 comprisesa lighting subsystem 870 installed therein and/or thereon. Inembodiments, a solar panel charging system 830 may transfer and/orprovide power (e.g., voltage and/or current) to a lighting subsystem870. In embodiments, a rechargeable battery 820 or 1135 may providepower (e.g., voltage and/or current) to a lighting subsystem 870. Inembodiments, a plurality of LED lights 1110 may be integrated into a oneor more of shading arm support assemblies 108. In embodiments, one ormore LED lights 1110 may be activated and/or turned on via a manualswitch. In embodiments, a shading object motion control PCB 895 maycommunicate commands, instructions, and/or signals to a lightingsubsystem 870 based on different environmental conditions and/orsituations (e.g., it is a certain time of a day, there is no light dueto cloud cover and/or darkness, or a shading object detects movement inan area). In embodiments, LED lights 1110 integrated into or attached toshading object arm support assemblies and may direct light in a downwardmanner directly towards or at a certain angle to a ground surface. Inembodiments, a lighting subsystem 870 (e.g., one or more LED lights) maybe integrated into or installed within a shading object central supportassembly 107. In embodiments, a lighting system may include a lightingballast (or lighting driver) 1115 and one or more LED lights 1110. Inembodiments, when LED lights 1110 are turned on (and/or activated), oneor more LED lights 1110 may direct light beams outward (e.g., in ahorizontal direction) from a central support assembly 107. Inembodiments, one or more LED lights may be directed at a 90 degree anglefrom a center support assembly 107 vertical axis. In embodiments, LEDlights may be installed in a swiveling assembly 1120 and LED lights 1110may transmit light (or light beams) at an angle of 20 to 90 degrees froma shading object central support 107 vertical axis. In embodiments, alighting subsystem 870 may comprise a processor or microcontroller 1125,a lighting driver 1115, a memory 1130, and/or one or more LED lights1110. In embodiments, a processor or microcontroller 1125, a lightingdriver 1115, and/or a memory 1130 may be installed on lighting PCB. Inembodiments, a shading object motion control PCB 895 may transmitcommands, instructions and/or signals to a processor or microcontroller1125 to activate or deactivate one or more LED lights 1110. Inembodiments, a microcontroller or processor 1125 may communicate pulsesof voltage and/or current to a lighting driver 1115, which in turncommunicates pulses of voltage and/or current to one or more LED lights1110. In embodiments, communicating pulses of voltage and/or current toa lighting driver 1115 and/or one or more LED lights 1110, saves ashading object power, due to only providing power a smaller amount oftime. This method allows a shading object to conserve a large amount ofenergy when an object is used in a dark environment (e.g., night time).Between 20 and 70 percent of power may be saved utilizing this method.In embodiments, one or more LED lights 1110 may be mounted on orinstalled within a center support assembly 107. In embodiments, one ormore LED lights 1110 may be directed to shine lines in an upwarddirection (e.g., more vertical direction) towards arms/blades 109 and/ora shading fabric of a shading object. In embodiments, a bottom surfaceof a shading fabric may reflect light beams from one or more LED lights1110 back to a surrounding area of a shading object (e.g., shadingobject). In an embodiment, a shading fabric may have a reflective bottomsurface to assist in reflecting light from the LED lights 1110 back tothe shading area.

In embodiments, a shading object central support assembly 107 may alsocomprise a cooler assembly (not shown). In embodiments, a coolerassembly may be attached to a central support assembly 107. Inembodiments, a can and/or a bottle may be placed in a cooler assemblyand a cooler may maintain a temperature of a beverage in a can and/orbottle (e.g., either a hot temperature or a cold temperature). Inembodiments, a cooler assembly may use magnetic principles to cooland/or heat a beverage. In embodiments, an AC adapter 835 or a DC-to-DCconverter 1295 may be coupled to a cooler assembly and may cool and/orprovide power to a cooler assembly to cause a cooler assembly to heat abeverage in a can and/or bottle. In embodiments, a rechargeable battery820 may transfer and/or provide power (e.g., voltage and/or current) toa cooler assembly.

FIG. 11B illustrates a wireless charging assembly according toembodiments. In embodiments, a shading object may comprise a wirelesscharging assembly 1150. In embodiments, a center support assembly 107may comprise a wireless charging assembly 1150. In embodiments, awireless charging assembly 1150 may be coupled and/or connected to acenter support assembly 107. In embodiments, a wireless chargingassembly 1150 may comprise a portable electronic device holder 1155, acharging surface 1160 and a coil 1165 within (e.g., integrated within acharging surface). In embodiments, a wireless charging assembly 1150utilizes inductive charging to charge a portable electronic device. Inembodiments, a wireless charging assembly 1150 utilizes electromagneticfield(s) to transfer energy between objects (e.g., a wireless chargingsurface and inductive coil within a portable electronic device). Inembodiments, a portable electronic device is placed against a surface ofa wireless charging assembly 1150 (where a charging surface 1160 mayinclude a primary coil 1160), and energy is sent through an inductivecoupling to a coil (e.g., secondary coil) in a portable electronicdevice, which can utilized the received energy to charge batteriesand/or run the portable electronic device. In embodiments, a wirelesscharging assembly 1150 is connected and/or coupled to a rechargeablebattery 820 to receive power. In embodiments, a wireless chargingassembly is connected and/or coupled to an AC adapter 835 and/or aDC-to-DC converter 1295 to receive power (e.g., voltage and/or current).

In embodiments, an umbrella movement control PCB 895 may comprise a USBtransceiver 877. In embodiments, a USB transceiver 877 may be a chipthat implements hardware portions of a USB protocol for a device, e.g.,a shading object. In embodiments, a USB transceiver may not be utilizedbecause USB ports and/or functionality may be built into and/orintegrated into a microcontroller/processor 905 of a movement controlPCB 895. Continuing with this illustrative embodiment, a tight couplingbetween firmware in a processor/controller 905 and a USB peripheralallows for higher speed, easier interactions, and thus no need for anexternal bus. In embodiments, a USB transceiver 877 may comprise anintegrated USB port 878. In embodiments, a USB transceiver 877 may becoupled and/or connected to a USB port 878 via wires, traces, and/orother conductive paths. In embodiments, a USB port 878 may utilized as apower source charger (e.g., a Universal Serial Bus (USB) charger) forportable electronic devices. In embodiments, a power source charger(e.g., USB port 878) may be connected and thus receive power from ashading object power charging system. In embodiments, a shading objectcharging system may receive power from a renewable power charger (e.g.,a solar power charger). In embodiments, a shelf and/or container may beattached to a shading object, so a portable electronic device may beplaced on a shelf or within a container, while charging. In embodiments,a USB port 878 may be located in a shelf and/or container and accessibleto be utilized by a portable electronics device for charging.

In embodiments, a shading object may comprise a shading fabric 715 andsolar cells 110. In embodiments, one or more strips or arrays of solarcells 110 may be placed on a top surface of a shading fabric 715. Inembodiments, one or more strips of solar cells may be integrated into(or woven into or be a part of) a shading fabric 715. In embodiments,solar cells 110 may be comprised of a flexible material. In embodiments,a shading fabric 715 may be coupled, connected and/or attached to aframe or support assembly (e.g., arm support assemblies 108) and one ormore strips of solar cells 110 may be placed on and/or attached to a topsurface of an arm support assembly 108. In embodiments, arm supportassemblies 108 may comprise a recess or a channel where solar cells 110may be placed and/or inserted. In embodiments, a shading fabric 715 mayhave one or more strips of solar cells 110 integrated therein or woveninto. In embodiments, one or more strips of solar cells 110 may form apattern on a top surface of a shading object. Continuing with thisillustrative embodiment, by forming solar cells in specific patterns,one or more strips of solar cells 110 may be capture sunlight and/orother ultraviolet light from a number of directions and/or thus,intensities.

FIG. 12 illustrates a power subsystem according to embodiments. Inembodiments, a shading object may comprise a power tracking solarcharger 830. In embodiments, a center support assembly 107 of a shadingobject may comprise and/or house a power tracking solar charger 830.Continuing with this illustrative embodiment, a power tracking solarcharger 830 may be located in and/or on an upper assembly 112 of acenter support assembly 107, or alternatively in or on a bottom assembly114 of a center support assembly 107. In embodiments, a power trackingsolar charger 830 may be connected to one or more solar cells 1210, arechargeable battery 820, and/or an AC adapter 835 or 1220. Inembodiments, a photovoltaic (PV) cell, or “solar cell” may be a smallestsemiconductor element that converts sunlight into electricity. Inembodiments, a semiconductor silicon may be treated so that silicongenerates a flow of electricity when a light shines on it. Inembodiments, a PV array or cells may be an interconnected system of PVcells that may function as a single electricity-producing unit. Inembodiments, a PV array 1210 or 110 may comprise one of more of thestrips of solar cells. In embodiments, a PV array 1210 or 110 maycomprise one solar cell strip. In embodiments, one or more solar cells1210 (e.g., a PV array 1210) may provide power directly to a powertracking solar charger 830 and/or a rechargeable battery 820. Inembodiments, one or more solar cells 1210 (or solar arrays) may providepower to motor assemblies, components, printed circuit boards, and/orother assemblies 1297 in an intelligent shading object.

In embodiments, a power tracking solar charger 830 may be coupled and/orconnected to a rechargeable battery 820. In embodiments, a powertracking solar charger 830 may be coupled and/or connected to an ACadapter 835 (or DC power adapter), which is coupled and/or connected toa power source. In embodiments, a charging assembly 830 may be coupledto one or more solar cells 1210 or solar arrays. In embodiments, a powertracking solar charger 830 may include a control panel 1275, acontroller 1280, a non-volatile memory 1285 and a volatile memory 1290,the non-volatile memory 1285 comprising computer-readable andcomputer-executable instructions, which are fetched and loaded intovolatile memory 1290 for execution by a controller or processor 1280 toperform a power monitoring, tracking and distribution process. Inembodiments, a power monitoring, tracking and/or distribution processmay monitor power levels and/or power conditions of different componentsof a shading object (e.g., a motion control PCB 895, arrays of solarcells 110 1210), a rechargeable battery 820). In embodiments, a powertracking and monitoring process may communicate information regardingpower levels and/or power conditions of a solar charger 830 (and othershading object components) to a control panel 1275 and/or to a portableelectronic device to display to a user and/or owner.

In embodiments, a power tracking solar charger 830 may transfer incomingpower (e.g., voltage and/or current) generated by the solar cells to oneor more converters (e.g., a DC-to-DC converters) 1295. In embodiments, arechargeable battery 820 may provide power (e.g., voltage and/orcurrent) to a DC-to-DC converter 1295. In embodiments, one or moreDC-to-DC converters 1295 may transfer voltage and/or current to one ormore PCBs, components, motor assemblies, and/or other assemblies of ashading object. In embodiments, a DC-to-DC converter 1295 may beutilized to provide lower operating voltages, e.g., 3.3 VDC or 5.0 VDCor other voltages, to components, boards and/or assemblies 1297operating on a lower DC voltage. In embodiments, rechargeable battery820 may transfer incoming power (e.g., voltage and/or current) to one ormore converters 1295, and a power charger 830 may monitor powerdistribution and power levels. In embodiments, a rechargeable battery820 may provide power to shading object or umbrella motor assemblies,PCBs, components, and/or assemblies 1297. If high power requirements areexisting due to operating conditions (e.g., motors running), arechargeable battery 820 and solar cells or solar cell arrays may bothprovide power to one or more PCBs, components, motor assemblies, and/orother assemblies of a shading object.

In embodiments, a shading object may comprise a voice recognition engine815. In embodiments, a shading object motion control PCB 895 may have avoice recognition engine 815 mounted and/or located thereon. Inembodiments, an integrated computing device 860 may have a voicerecognition engine mounted on and/or located thereon. In embodiments, avoice recognition engine 815 may be mounted separately from a motioncontrol PCB 895 and/or a computing device 860. In embodiments, a voicerecognition PCB may comprise a processor, non-volatile and/or volatilememory components, and a voice recognition engine. In embodiments, avoice recognition engine or module 815 allows users and/or individualsto speak to a shading object to communicate with a shading object and/orexternal devices (e.g., portable electronic devices and/or cameras)coupled to a shading object or umbrella. In addition, a voicerecognition engine 815 may synthesize speech from received commands(e.g., text commands) and may talk to an individual. In embodiments,computer-readable and computer-executable instructions may be fetchedfrom a non-volatile memory, stored in a volatile memory, and executed bya processor to recognize an individuals' voice and/or implement a voicerecognition process. In embodiments, a voice recognition engine 815 mayrecognized preprogramed voice commands. In embodiments, a voicerecognition engine 815 may allow training and/or incorporating of newcommands. In embodiments, if commands are successfully translated and/orconverted, a voice recognition engine 815 may communicate a conformationaudio signal to an audio amplifier 875 and/or one or more speakers 940.In embodiments, commands may be open, close, deploy, retract, rotate,move, turn on lights, turn on music, activate solar power, etc. Inembodiments, a voice recognition engine 815 may also have a speechsynthesizer. In embodiments, a voice synthesizer in a voice recognitionengine 815 may allow for an intelligent shading object or umbrella totalk to individuals within an area surrounding and/or adjacent to ashading object or umbrella. In embodiments, a voice recognition engine815 may generate voice prompts, responses or alerts and convert theseprompts, responses, and/or alerts to audio signals. In embodiment,generated audio signals may be communicated to an audio amplifier and/orone or more speakers 940.

In embodiments, a shading object central support assembly 107 may alsocomprise one or more microphones. In embodiments, one or moremicrophones may also be attached to and/or integrated into a stemassembly 106, a base assembly 105, shading fabric 715, arms/blades 109,and/or arm support assemblies 108. In embodiments, for example, a voicerecognition process and/or method may be initiated when a user in aphysical vicinity of a shading object may speak. In embodiments, amicrophone, located on or within the shading object, may capture auser's voice and generate an analog voice signal. In embodiments, ananalog-to-digital converter (ADC) may convert a voice to a digital voicesignal and may transfer and/or communicate a voice digital signal to avoice recognition engine 815. In embodiments, a voice recognition engine815 may analyze the received digital voice, extract commands and/orinformation, and communicate the extracted commands and/or informationto a motion control PCB 895 and shading object computing device to causeactions requested verbally by a user or individual to be implementedand/or completed. In embodiments, the voice recognition engine 815generated commands, instructions, or signals instructions may becommunicated to other PCBs, subsystems, assemblies and/or components ofthe shading object in order to comply with and/or react to voiceinstructions. For example, a voice recognition engine 815 may extractfrom a received voice signal, a command to obtain sensor measurements,(e.g., sunlight intensity, ozone, and/or wind measurements or reading)from a sensor module 750. The voice recognition engine 815 maycommunicate the extracted command to a motion control PCB 895 (oralternatively a shading object computing device 860) to communicate witha weather variable PCB and/or a sensor module 750 (e.g., throughwireless transceivers, wires, and/or circuit traces). In embodiments, ashading object movement control PCB 895 may communicate to a weathervariables PCB to obtain sensor measurements from sensors in a sensormodule 750 coupled to and/or connected to a weather variables PCB. Inembodiments, sensors (e.g., sensors 811-814, 816, 817) may obtainmeasurements and may communicate these measurements to a weathervariables PCB 810, a shading object movement control PCB 895, and/or toa shading object computing device 860. In embodiments, obtainedmeasurements may be stored (for later use and/or analyzation), may becommunicated via a sound system to a user, or may be displayed on amonitor, and/or utilized in a mobile software application.

In embodiments, a shading object movement control PCB 895 may comprise apersonal area network transceiver 865. In embodiments, a PAN transceiver865 may be located on a separate PCB or on other PCBs within a shadingobject. In embodiments, a PAN transceiver 865 located on a shadingobject movement control PCB 895 may be a master transceiver. Inembodiments, which are illustrative, but not limiting, PAN transceivers,may be an INSTEON transceiver, an IrDA transceiver, a Wireless USBtransceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, a Z-Wave transceiver, a ZigBeetransceiver, and/or a body area network transceiver. In embodiments,additional PCBs and/or components may also comprise PAN transceivers. Inembodiments, a transceiver 865 on a movement control PCB 895 maycommunicate instructions, commands, and/or signals to one or more PANtransceivers located in other areas of the intelligent shading object(e.g., PAN transceivers in a first PCB (e.g., a PCB controlling azimuthmovement), a computing device (e.g., a Linux computer), a second PCB(e.g., a PCB controlling elevation movement), a third PCB (e.g., a PCBcontrolling extension or linear actuation movement), a telemetry PCB,and/or a weather variable PCB). By utilizing PAN transceivers and PANcommunication protocols in an intelligent shading object, use of wires,flexible circuit boards, and/or other interfaces may be minimized andmore physical space may be present in an intelligent shading object.This is a benefit in that a shading object may be able to house and/orincorporate more features and/or components. In addition, potentialhindrances to movements of a shading object (e.g., rotation about avertical axis of a central support assembly and/or deployment of ashading object support arms and/or blades) may be minimized allowingfree movement of these assemblies. In embodiments, PAN transceivers maybe utilized in all communications between PCBs and/or between PCBsand/or components of a shading object. In embodiments, PAN transceiversmay be utilized for communications of shorter durations and/or lowerdata throughput. In embodiments, for example, communications from amovement control PCB 895 to a first motor controller 880 may utilize aPAN communication protocol (e.g., PAN transceivers in each device) dueto short duration and/or a low data throughput. In embodiments, forexample, communications from a movement control PCB 895 to a weathervariable PCB 810 may utilize a PAN communication protocol.

In embodiments, wearable computing devices (e.g., watches, glasses,other clothing articles) may also incorporate PAN technology tocommunicate with nearby computing devices and exchange digital data andinformation using an electrical conductivity of a human body as a datanetwork. In embodiments, a person wearing a smart watch may exchangeinformation with an intelligent shading object by coming into contactwith a shading object, especially next to a PAN transceiver. A humanbody's natural salinity makes it a good conductor of electricity. Inembodiments, an electric field passes tiny currents, known as pico amps,through contact with another conductive device. In embodiments, atransference of data and/or commands through intra-body contact, such ashandshakes, may be known as linkup. In embodiments, contact between awearable computing device and another conductive surface (e.g., on ashading object, may complete an electric circuit and each person's dataand/or control information, such as e-mail addresses and phone numbers,may be transferred to a shading object from a wearable computing deviceto a shading object and in another direction (e.g., from a shadingobject to a wearable computing device). In embodiments, a person'sclothing also could act as a mechanism for transferring this data backand forth between a shading object.

In embodiments, an intelligent shading object or umbrella may furthercomprise a sensor module 750. In embodiments, a sensor module 750 may beconnected to a top end of a center support assembly 107. As illustratedin FIG. 7, a sensor module 750 may connect, couple or fasten to a postor other structure on top of an upper assembly 112 of a center supportassembly 107. In embodiments, a sensor module 750 may be located onother portions of a shading object, e.g., integrated into a shadingfabric 715, attached to or integrated into arms and/or blades,connected, coupled or attached to a center support assembly 107, a stemassembly 106, and/or a base assembly 106. In embodiments, a sensormodule 750 may screw into a recess on a top of a center supportassembly, or alternatively may snap onto a top of a center supportassembly 107.

In embodiments, a sensor module 750 may comprise a telemetry PCB 705 anda weather-related PCB. A telemetry PCB 705 may also be referred to as aGPS solar tracking module. In embodiments, a telemetry PCB may comprisea GPS/GNSS sensor 706 and/or a digital compass 707. In embodiments, atelemetry PCB 705 may be powered by a rechargeable battery 820 and/orDC-to-DC converters, or by a battery located on a telemetry PCB. Inembodiments, a GPS receiver 706 may communicate with GPS/GNSS satellitesand receive positioning signals from satellites and calculates alatitude and/or longitude of a shading object. In embodiments, a GPSreceive may receive latitude, longitude and/or altitude readings fromGPS/GNSS satellites. In embodiments, a GPS receiver 706 may alsodetermine an altitude of a shading object from signals communicated fromGPS/GNSS satellites. In embodiments, GPS receiver measurements and/orcalculations may be utilized by a shading object to determine movementsnecessary by different electromechanical assemblies of a shading object.For example, a movement control PCB 895 may receive GPS receivermeasurements (e.g., longitude, latitude, and/or altitude measurements),analyze and/or process these measurements, and determine necessarymovements by a stem assembly 106, a center support assembly 107, and/orarm support assembly 108. In embodiments, a movement control PCB 895 maycommunicate commands, signals, and/or instructions to a first motorcontroller PCB 880 (azimuth), a second motor controller 885 (elevation),and/or a third motor controller PCB 890 (actuation) to cause movementsof a stem assembly 106, a center support assembly 107, and/or armsupport assembly 108.

In embodiments, a sensor module 805 may comprise a digital compass 707may measure magnetic fields surrounding a shading object and maygenerate a directional reading and/or an angle a direction heading(e.g., a degree heading from true north). In embodiments, thesedirectional and/or angular readings may be communicated to a motioncontrol PCB 895. For example, a movement control PCB may receive digitalcompass 807 measurements or values, analyze and/or process thesemeasurements or values, and determine necessary movements in response toheading or directional information by a stem assembly 106, a centersupport assembly 107, and/or arm support assembly 108. In embodiments, amovement control PCB may communicate commands, signals, and/orinstructions to a first motor controller PCB 880 (azimuth), a secondmotor controller 885 (elevation), and/or a third motor controller PCB890 (actuation) to cause movements of a stem assembly 106, a centersupport assembly 107, and/or arm support assembly 108. In embodiments, atelemetry PCB may be utilized infrequently because a shading object maynot be moved from one geographical location to another. Thus, GPSinformation (latitude, longitude, and/or altitude) and/or headinginformation (from a digital compass) may not change frequently. Thus, atelemetry circuit PCB 805 may comprise a low power processor. Inembodiments, a telemetry PCB 805 (and a GPS receiver 806 and/or digitalcompass 807) may only utilized during configuration and/or calibrationof a shading object. During configuration and/or calibration of ashading object (or after a shading object or umbrella has been moved),GPS and digital compass measurements may be requested and aftercommunication of these measurements, a movement control PCB 895 mayanalyze measurements, calculate elevation and azimuth movements for anintelligent shading object, and communicate instructions, commandsand/or signals to respective motor assemblies. In embodiments, a digitalcompass 807 may be utilized more frequently than a GPS receiver 806.

In embodiments, a sensor module 750 may comprise a weather variable PCB810. In embodiments, a weather variable PCB may be located in anotherassembly of a shading object (e.g., stem assembly 106, a center supportassembly 107, and/or arm support assembly 108). In embodiments, aweather variable PCB 810 may also be referred to as a micro climate datamodule. In embodiments, a weather variable PCB 810 may comprise aprocessor/controller, a memory, one or more air quality sensors 811, oneor more UV radiation sensors 812, one or more digital and/or analogbarometers 813, one or more temperature sensors 814, one or morehumidity sensors 816, and/or one more wind speed sensors 817. Inembodiments, a solar power charging assembly 830 may provide power(e.g., voltage and/or current to a weather variable PCB 805 and/orcomponents located thereon. In embodiments, a battery (e.g.,rechargeable battery) 820 may provide power to a weather variable PCBand components located thereon.

In embodiments, sensor readings, measurements, and values communicatedby sensors to a weather variable PCB in a sensor module 750 may becommunicated directly or indirectly to a movement control PCB 895 andthen directly or indirectly to an integrated computing device 860. Inembodiments, sensor readings, measurements, and values communicated by asensor module 750 may be communicated directly or indirectly to anintegrated computing device 860. In embodiments, sensor readings,measurements and/or values may be stored in a memory of a shading objectcomputing device and/or a memory coupled thereto. In embodiments, amemory storing sensor reading measurements may be non-volatile and/orvolatile. In embodiments, a shading object computing device 860 maycommunicate sensor readings to external computing devices via wirelesscommunication protocols (e.g., WiFi) in order to minimize usage ofstorage on a shading object computing device. In embodiments, externaldevices storing sensor information may include application serversand/or databases, cloud servers and/or databases, and other offsitestorage devices. In embodiments, storing of sensor readings on either ashading object computing device and/or external computing devices allowsa shading object sensor reading history to be created and/or maintained.

In embodiments, a sensor module 750 may comprise an air quality sensor811. In embodiments, an air quality sensor 811 may provide ozonemeasurements, particulate matter measurements, carbon monoxidemeasurements, sulfur dioxide measurements and/or nitrous oxidemeasurements. In embodiments, an air quality sensor 811 may provideallergen measurements. Ozone leads to intelligent readings to tell anindividual to go inside. In embodiments, a weather variable PCB 810 mayreceive measurements and/or readings from an air quality sensor 811 andmay communicate these measurements to a movement control PCB 895. Inembodiments, a movement control PCB 895 may receive air quality sensormeasurements, analyze the measurements, and cause shading objectassemblies and/or components to react to air quality measurements. Inembodiments, for example, if an air quality is too low, e.g., ascompared to an existing threshold, a movement control PCB 895 maycommunicate commands, instructions and/or signals to an audio system toalert a user of unsafe conditions. In embodiments, for example, ozonemeasurements received by a movement control PCB 895 from an air qualitysensor may be utilized to determine an amount of time an individualshould be outside, and this amount of time may be communicated to anindividual via a sound system (communicated audibly), via a displayand/or monitor, and/or wirelessly to an external computing device.

In embodiments, a sensor module 750 may comprise an ultraviolet (UV)radiation sensor 812. In embodiments, a UV radiation sensor may providediscrete radiation band measurements, including, but not limited to UVB,radiation, UVA radiation, Infrared lighting, or a combination of any andall of these radiation measurements. In embodiments, a weather variablePCB 810 may receive measurements and/or readings from a UV sensor 812and may communicate these measurements to a movement control PCB 895. Inembodiments, for example, UV radiation measurements received by amovement control PCB 895 from a UV sensor 812 may be utilized todetermine and/or calculate an amount of time an individual should beoutside, and this amount of time may be communicated to an individualvia a sound system (communicated audibly), via a display and/or monitor,and/or wirelessly to an external computing device.

In embodiments, a sensor module 750 may comprise a digital barometer813. In embodiments, a digital barometer may provide, measure, and/ordisplay complex atmospheric data more accurately and quickly than priorbarometers. Many digital barometers display both current barometricreadings and previous 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-hour readings in a bar chartformat, much like a barograph. They also account for other atmosphericreadings such as wind and humidity to make accurate weather forecasts.In embodiments, a weather variable PCB 810 may receive measurementsand/or readings from a digital barometer 813 and may communicate thesemeasurements to a movement control PCB 895. In embodiments, for example,a movement control PCB 895 may receive digital barometer measurements(e.g., altitude measurements), analyze and/or process thesemeasurements, and determine necessary movements by a stem assembly 106,a center support assembly 107, and/or arm support assembly 108. Inembodiments, a movement control PCB 895 may communicate commands,signals, and/or instructions to a first motor controller PCB 880(azimuth), a second motor controller 885 (elevation), and/or a thirdmotor controller PCB 890 (actuation) to cause movements of a stemassembly 106, a center support assembly 107, and/or arm support assembly108. In embodiments, for example, a movement control PCB 895 and/or anintegrated computing device 860 may receive digital barometermeasurements and generate a weather forecast for an area being served bya shading object and/or umbrella.

In embodiments, a sensor module 750 may comprise a temperature sensor814. In embodiments, a temperature sensor 814 may generate and provide atemperature reading for a shading object environment. In embodiments, aweather variable PCB 810 may receive measurements and/or readings from atemperature sensor 814 and may communicate these measurements to amovement control PCB 895. In embodiments, for example, temperaturemeasurements received by a movement control PCB 895 from a temperaturesensor 814 may be utilized to determine and/or calculate an amount oftime an individual should be outside, and this amount of time may becommunicated to an individual via a sound system (communicated audibly),via a display and/or monitor, and/or wirelessly to an external computingdevice.

In embodiments, a sensor module 750 may comprise a humidity sensor 816.In embodiments, a humidity sensor 816 may provide humidity measurementsin an environment where a shading object is located. In embodiments, aweather variable PCB 810 may receive measurements and/or readings from ahumidity sensor 816 and may communicate these measurements to a movementcontrol PCB 895. In embodiments, for example, humidity measurementsreceived by a movement control PCB 895 from a humidity sensor 816 may beutilized to determine and/or calculate an amount of time an individualshould be outside, and this amount of time may be communicated to anindividual via a sound system (communicated audibly), via a displayand/or monitor, and/or wirelessly to an external computing device. Inembodiments, a movement control PCB 895 may receive humidity sensorreadings and/or temperature sensor readings and determine that a mistingsystem and/or cooling system should be activated. In embodiments, amovement control PCB 895 may generate commands, instructions and/orsignals and communicate the same to a misting system 1420 and/or amisting system controller to activate a misting and/or cooling system todeal with high humidity and/or high temperature environments and/orsituations.

In embodiments, a sensor module 750 may comprise a wind sensor 817. Inembodiments, a wind speed sensor 817 may provide wind speed and/or winddirection information at a top of a shading object or umbrella, and/orat a middle of a shading object and/or umbrella. In embodiments, aweather variable PCB 810 may receive measurements and/or readings from awind sensor 817 and may communicate these measurements to a movementcontrol PCB 895. In embodiments, for example, a movement control PCB 895may receive wind speed measurements analyze and/or process thesemeasurements, and determine necessary movements by a stem assembly 106,a center support assembly 107, and/or arm support assembly 108. Inembodiments, a movement control PCB 895 may communicate commands,signals, and/or instructions to a first motor controller PCB 880(azimuth), a second motor controller 885 (elevation), and/or a thirdmotor controller PCB 890 (actuation) to cause movements of a stemassembly 106, a center support assembly 107, and/or arm support assembly108. In embodiments, if a wind speed is higher than a predeterminedthreshold, a movement control PCB 895 may communicate commands,instructions, and/or signals to motor controllers to cause a shadingobject to be retracted and moved to a rest position. In embodiments, awind sensor 817 may also be mounted on or integrated into a centersupport assembly 107 and utilized in a same fashion as described above.

In embodiments, a shading object may comprise one or more digitalcameras 857. In embodiments, one or more digital cameras 857 maycomprise an optical system and/or an image generation system. Inembodiments, image generation systems may comprise a lens with avariable diaphragm to focus light onto an image pickup device (e.g., asensor and/or an array of sensors). In embodiments, a diaphragm andshutter may allow admit light rays to the image pickup device. Inembodiments, digital cameras 857 may display images on a screenimmediately after being captured. In embodiments, one or more digitalcameras 857 may store and/or delete images from a memory associated witha digital camera. In embodiments, one or more digital cameras 857 maycapture, record and/or moving videos with or without sound. Inembodiments, digital cameras 857 may also incorporate computer-readableand computer-executable instructions which, which when retrieved from anon-volatile memory, loaded into a memory, and executed by a processor,may crop and/or stitch pictures, and/or potentially perform other imageediting on captured images. In embodiments, a central support assembly107 may comprise one or more cameras 857. In embodiments, a centersupport assembly 107 may comprise four cameras, with each camerainstalled approximately 90 degrees from another. In embodiments, digitalcameras 857 may each be able to move in a canister or rotate in order tocapture 360 degrees around a shading object. In embodiments, one or morecameras 857 may also be located on a top portion of a shading object(e.g., located on and/or within a sensor module positioned on top of acenter support assembly 107, located on top of an arm/blade 108, orlocated on a shading fabric 715).

In embodiments, one or more digital cameras 857 may be utilized as asecurity cameras. In embodiments, for example, one or more digitalcameras 857 may capture images in an environment in which a shadingobject is installed and/or located. For example, if a shading object isrotating around a vertical axis (e.g., the shading system (stem assembly106 and center support assembly 107) are rotating about a base assembly105), a camera 857 may capture images and/or real-time video. Inembodiment, one or more digital cameras may capture images and/orreal-time video and may communicate images and/or video to a memorylocated on a shading object computing device 860 within a center supportassembly 107. In embodiments, one or more digital cameras 857 maycapture images and/or real-time video of an environment here a shadingobject or umbrella is located (up to a 360 degree picture) and maycommunicate images and/or video to a memory located on a motion controlPCB 895. In embodiments, images or real-time video may be communicatedand/or streamed to a wireless transceiver in an integrated computingdevice 860 and/or associated computing device PCB. In embodiments,continuing with this example, images and/or real-time video communicatedto a shading object computing device may be stored in a memory (e.g.,volatile and/or non-volatile memory) of a shading object computingdevice 860. In embodiments, continuing with this illustrativeembodiments, images and/or real-time video may be communicated via awireless transceiver and/or wireless hotspot to external computingdevices (e.g., application servers, databases, network servers) or otherdevices on a global communications network (e.g., such as the World WideWeb and/or the Internet).

In embodiments, one or more digital cameras may capture an image of anindividual within a shading area of the shading object. In embodiments,the digital camera 857 may communicate images and/or videos, with orwithout sound, to an integrated computing device 860 (or alternatively amotion control PCB). In embodiments, computer-readable andcomputer-executable instructions may be retrieved from a non-volatilememory, loaded into a volatile memory and executed by a processor toexecute or initiate a facial recognition process or method. Inembodiments, a computing device facial recognition process may compare acommunicated image to existing images stored in a memory (of a shadingobject computing device) to determine if an individual whose face wascaptured is an authorized shading object user. If a facial recognitionprocess determines an individual is an authorized user, a shading objectcomputing device 860 may generate commands, instructions and/or signalsand communicate the generated commands, instructions, and/or signals toa motion control PCB. In embodiments, in response, a processor on amotion control PCB 895 or a processor on an integrated computing devicemay retrieve personalized settings, from a memory, for an individual andcause shading object assemblies and/or components to be moved and/oractivated in conformance with retrieved personal settings. For example,an individual may have an existing stored audio playlist and upon facialrecognition, a processor may initiate playing of a personal playlist,utilizing an audio system and speakers, 875 if an individual's image isrecognized. This may occur even if a playlist is on an external device(e.g., a portable music player and/or portable electronic device). Asanother illustrative example, an individual may have specific settingsstored in a memory for stem assemblies 106, base assemblies 105, centersupport assemblies 107 (e.g., position upper assembly 112 of a centersupport assembly 107 at an angle 20 degrees from a lower assembly 113 ofa center support assembly), and/or arm support assemblies 108. As anaddition example, an individual may have a personalized setting, storedin a memory, that activates a misting system if a temperature readingand/or humidity reading is above a threshold, and an individual islocated within a shading area. In embodiments, a motion control PCB 895may communicate activation instructions, commands, and/or signals to amisting system to address the high humidity situation.

In embodiments, one or more of the digital cameras 857 may comprise aninfrared detector. In embodiments, an infrared detector may comprise oneor infrared light sources and an infrared sensor. In embodiments,infrared sensors may detect a select light wavelength in an Infra-Red(IR) spectrum. In embodiments, one or more LED lights (or other lightassemblies) may produce and/or generate light at an IR wavelength and anIR sensor may receive and/or analyze an intensity and/or amplitude of areceived light. In embodiments, when an object is close to an IR sensor,light generated from an IR LED (or IR light assembly) may bounce and/orreflect off an object back into an IR light sensor. In embodiments, thislarge jump in an IR intensity may be compared against a threshold, andif a threshold is reached (e.g., the return IR intensity is higher thana threshold), then an infrared detector may generate a signal indicatingthat an object is located within an area being monitored or viewed by aninfrared detector. In embodiments, if an infrared detector generates asignal indicating that an object (and/or individual) is present, acamera 857 may be activated and begin to capture images and/or video,with or without sound, and transmit captured images and/or video, withor without sound, to a shading object computing device 860. Inembodiments, if an infrared detector generates a signal indicating thatan object (and/or individual) is present, a lighting assembly (e.g., LEDlights) 870 may also be activated and lights may be directed in an areasurrounding an intelligent shading object and/or directly to an areawhere an object is detected. In embodiments, one or more cameras 857and/or one or more lighting assemblies 870 may be activated, whichresults in better images and/or video of an area surrounding a shadingobjet being captured and/or communicated to a shading object computingdevice. This is yet another example of how an intelligent shading objectprovides additional benefits of not only capturing images of itssurrounding area but also being utilized as a security device for anenvironment in which an intelligent shading object is located.

In embodiments, one or more cameras 857 may be thermal imaging camera.In embodiments, a thermal imaging camera comprises a special lens mayfocus on infrared light emitted by all objects within an areasurrounding and/or adjacent to an intelligent shading object orumbrella. In embodiments, a focused light may be scanned by a phasedarray of infrared-detector elements. In embodiments, one or moredetector elements may generate a very detailed temperature pattern,which may be referred to as a thermogram. In embodiments, a detectorarray may take about one-thirtieth of a second to obtain temperatureinformation to make a thermogram. In embodiments, information may beobtained from a plurality of points in a field of view of a detectorarray. In embodiments, detector elements from a thermogram may beconverted and/or translated into electric impulses and electricalimpulses may be sent to a signal-processing unit. In embodiments, asignal-processing unit may be a PCB with a dedicated chip thattranslates received information (electrical impulses) into thermalimages and/or thermal video. In embodiments, a signal-processing unitmay communicate thermal images and/or thermal video either to a display(e.g., a shading object display and/or a display on a computing devicecommunicating with an intelligent shading object). In embodiments, asignal-processing unit of a thermal imaging camera 857 may communicatethermal images and/or thermal video to a shading object computing device860 for analysis, storage and/or retransmission to external computingdevices. In embodiments, a thermal image may appear as various colorsdepending on and/or corresponding to an intensity of an infrared image.In embodiments, a thermal imaging camera allows additional benefits ofnot having to activate a lighting assembly in order to capture imagesand/or videos of an area surrounding an intelligent shading umbrella orobject. In addition, by not activating a lighting assembly 870, anintruder or moving object may not be aware that a digital camera 857 maybe capturing an image or video of an area where an intruder or object islocated. In embodiments, an infrared detector may activate a thermalimaging camera 857 upon detection of movement. In embodiments, a thermalimaging camera may activate on its own due to movement of an intruderand/or object, or may be periodically or continuing capturing imagesand/or video.

FIG. 10 illustrates a shading object or umbrella integrated computingdevice according to embodiments. In embodiments, an integrated computingdevice PCB 1000 may comprise a wireless WiFi or LAN wireless transceiver1010 (which may or may not operate as a wireless hotspot and/or router),a separate wireless hotspot device 1015, one or more audio/videotransceivers 1020 (e.g., PAN transceivers), one or more processors 1025,one or more non-volatile memories 1030 and one or more memory components1035. In embodiments, many of the components may reside on a computingdevice PCB. In embodiments, a separate PCB may house or have some of theabove-listed components (e.g., WiFi transceiver 1010, wireless hotspotdevice 1015) mounted thereon and a shading object computing device maycomprise non-volatile memory 1030 (e.g., a flash drive, a hard drive, aremovable disk drive), and a volatile memory 1035 such as RAM, and on ormore processors 1025.

In embodiments, computer-readable and/or computer-executableinstructions may be stored in non-volatile memory, fetched by one ormore processors 1025, loaded into RAM 1035, and executed by one or moreprocessors 1025 to perform data intensive functions, execute processessuch as a healthcare process (e.g., selecting a healthcare option from adashboard of a mobile application), a security process (e.g., selectinga security option from a dashboard of a mobile application), an energyprocess or application (e.g., selecting an energy option from adashboard of a mobile application), a weather application or processor(e.g., selecting a weather option from a dashboard of a mobileapplication), and/or communicating with external devices (e.g., wirelessaccess points, portable electronic devices, servers, networks). Inembodiments, an integrated computing device 860 and/or a computingdevice PCB may consume more power due to higher data throughput andhigher utilization time. Having a computing device integrated into anintelligent shading object or umbrella, provides a benefit, as to priorart shading objects or umbrellas, of allowing an intelligent shadingobject to run software applications, communicate with data intensivedevices, such as cameras and/or audio system, utilize WiFi or otherwireless communication transmissions, operate as a WiFi hotspot (orother wireless communication hub) and communicate with externalcomputing devices to transfer data obtained by the intelligent shadingobject.

In embodiments, an integrated computing device 1000 may communicate withapplication servers, mobile applications servers, proxy servers, and/orother computing devices on a global communications network (e.g., theInternet). In embodiments, a shading object computing device may handledata and/or command communications between external devices and ashading object. In embodiment, a integrated computing device 860 mayhandle intra-shading object communications requiring more extensiveprocessing power and/or higher data transfer rates. In embodiments, ashading object center support assembly 107 may house an integratedcomputing device. In embodiments, a center support assembly 107 may alsohouse a computing device PCB to which a computing device 860 may beattached to and/or connected.

In embodiments, an integrated computing device 860 may be a Linux-basedcomputing device (e.g., Raspberry PI) although other operating systemsand/or other processor types may be utilized. In embodiments, a shadingobject may comprise one or more transceivers to communicate withwireless access points utilizing a wireless communication protocol. Inembodiments, one or more wireless transceivers may communicate voiceand/or data communications to an access point, which in turn maycommunicate received voice and/or data communications to apacket-switched network (e.g., a global communications network such asthe Internet, an intranet, or a private network) or a circuit-switchednetwork (such as existing telecommunications system).

In embodiments, an integrated computing device may comprise a WiFi (orwireless LAN) transceiver 1010 which may also operate as a hotspotand/or personal wireless access point. In embodiments, an integratedcomputing device 860 may comprise a separate and/or additional wirelesshotspot 1015. In embodiments, a wireless hotspot may be operate as anwireless access point providing network and/or Internet access toportable electronic devices (e.g., smartphones, music players) or otherelectronic devices (personal computers and/or laptops) in publiclocations, where other wireless access points are not located (or beingutilized for different purposes). If a computing device 860 comprises awireless hotspot 1015 (or a wireless transceiver 1010 is operating as ahotspot), wireless communication devices (e.g., laptops, tablets,smartphones) may utilize a shading object as a communications hub. Thismay be beneficial in remote locations where no wireless access pointsare located, or in locations where wireless data or voice communicationshave been interrupted. In addition, if a shading object computing deviceand thus a shading object includes a wireless hotspot, image or videostreaming, face-timing, application downloads, or other data intensivefunctions and/or applications may execute and be completed in a shorteramount of time then when using a PAN transceiver 865.

In embodiments, an integrated computing device 860 may store and/orexecute shading object or umbrella application software, which may bereferred to as SMARTSHADE and/or SHADECRAFT application software. Inembodiments, shading object or umbrella application software may be runand/or executed on a variety of computing devices including a computingdevice integrated within a shading object or umbrella. In embodiments,for example, shading object or umbrella application software may includecomputer-readable instructions being stored in non-volatile memories ofa shading object computing device, a portable electronic device (e.g., asmart phone and/or a tablet), an application server, and/or a webapplication server, all which interact and communicate with each other.In embodiments, computer-readable instructions may be retrieved frommemories (e.g., non-volatile memories) of these above-identifiedcomputing devices, loaded into volatile memories and executed byprocessors in the shading object computing device, portable electronicdevice, application server, and/or mobile application server. Inembodiments, a user interface (and/or graphical user interface) for ashading object software application may be presented on a portableelectronic device, although other computing devices could also executeinstructions and present a graphical user interface (e.g., dashboard) toan individual. In embodiments, shading object application software maygenerate and/or display a dashboard with different application (e.g.,process) selections (e.g., weather, health, storage, energy, securityprocesses and/or applications). In embodiments, shading objectapplication software may control operation of a shading object,communicate with and receive communications from shading objectassemblies and/or components, analyze information obtained by assembliesand/or components of a shading object or umbrella, integrate withexisting home and/or commercial software systems, and/or store personaldata generated by the shading object, and communicate with externaldevices.

In embodiments, a portable electronic device may also comprise a mobileapplication stored in a non-volatile memory. In embodiments, a mobileapplication may be referred to as a SHADECRAFT or a SMARTSHADE mobileapplication. In embodiments, a mobile application (mobile app) maycomprise instructions stored in a non-volatile memory of a portableelectronic device, which can be executed by a processor of a portableelectronic device to perform specific functionality. In embodiments,this functionality may be controlling of, interacting with, and/orcommunicating with a shading object. In embodiments, mobile apps mayprovide users with similar services to those accessed and may beindividual software units with limited or specific function. Inembodiments, applications may be available for download from mobileapplication stores, such as Apple's App Store. In embodiments, mobileapps may be known as an app, a Web app, an online app, an iPhone app ora smartphone app.

In embodiments, a mobile app may communicate with a mobile applicationserver and/or also an application server. In embodiments, an applicationserver may be a backend server. In embodiments, application servers mayconsist of components, such as web server connectors, computerprogramming languages, runtime libraries, database connectors, andadministration software code which may be utilized to deploy, configure,manage, and connect these components on a web host. In embodiments, anapplication server may run and/or execute behind a web Server (e.g. anApache or Microsoft IIS webs server) and may run and/or execute) infront of an SQL database (e.g. a PostgreSQL database, a MySQL database,or an Oracle database). In embodiments, web software applications may beexecutable computer instructions which run and/or execute on top ofapplication servers, and are written in computer programming language(s)an application server may supports. In embodiments, web softwareapplications may call runtime libraries and/or components an applicationserver may offer. In embodiments, an application server may be referredto as a SMARTSHADE application server and/or a SHADECRAFT applicationserver.

In embodiments, a mobile app server may be utilized in between a mobileapp and an application server. In embodiments, a mobile application maybe mobile middleware software that interfaces with back-end systems(e.g., applications servers) to allow the mobile applications tocommunicate and interface with the application servers. In embodiments,a mobile app server may bridges a gap from existing infrastructure(e.g., application servers and/or networks and/or databases) to portableelectronics devices (e.g., mobile devices). In embodiments, mobileapplication servers may take care of security, data management and otheroff-line requirements in order to minimize a load on applicationservers. In embodiments, a mobile application server may be referred toas a SHADECRAFT and/or SMARTSHADE mobile application server.

In embodiments, a SMARTSHADE and/or SHADECRAFT application software maycomprise one or more application components and/or modules which mayprovide a user and/or individual with different features and/orfunctionality. For example, in embodiments, a SMARTSHADE and/orSHADECRAFT application software or system may comprise a personal carecomponent and/or module, a shading object operation component and/ormodule, a shading object accessory commerce component, an e-commercecomponent and/or module, and a home security/monitoring component and/ormodule (e.g., like a connection to an Internet of Things). Inembodiments, a SMARTSHADE and/or SHADECRAFT application system or systemmay also provide storage or access to storage for individual's personalinformation, preferences, digital products (e.g., movies, pictures,and/or music), and/or security information. In embodiments, SMARTSHADEand/or SHADECRAFT application software may refer to software (e.g.,computer-readable instructions) executing on a portable electronicdevice (e.g., a mobile device such as a smart phone), an integratedcomputing device (in an intelligent shading object), an applicationserver, a cloud server, and/or a mobile application server). Inembodiments, different portions, components, modules of the SHADECRAFTapplication software may be located and executing on different devicesand a user may be interacting with one or more of the devices.

In embodiments, when implementing a weather process (e.g., executing aweather process from a dashboard on a mobile application), an integratedcomputing device 860 may leverage shading object sensors and data fromother nearby shading objects and can communicate users weatherinformation with unprecedented accuracy and improve an individual'sunderstanding weather conditions. In embodiments, weather informationand/or data may be obtained from sensors in a sensor module 750 via aweather variables PCB 810 and/or a shading object moving control PCB895. In embodiments, sensor measurements may be stored in a memory 1030and/or 1035 of an integrated computing device 1000. Individuals may bepresented with localized and microenvironment weather conditions withunprecedented accuracy due to localization of measurements. Inembodiments, an individual may establish weather thresholds and/orpreferred weather conditions, and if these threshold and/or weatherconditions are determined to have occurred by the shading objectexecuting the weather process (or software application), the weatherprocess may alert an individual through an audio system or via a displaydevice. In embodiments, a weather process may also predict weatherconditions for an upcoming period of time. In embodiments, a shadingobject computing device may communicate with an access point (or its ownhot spot access point), which in turn communications with aweather-related application server or weather-related mobile applicationserver. Information regarding weather forecasts (sun intensity, cloudcover, atmospheric conditions, air quality, etc.) for a geographic areawhere a shading object is installed may be downloaded to a memory 1030or 1035 of a computing device in a shading object and utilized by ashading object or an individual serviced by the shading object. Inembodiments, this information may be integrated with date information,and/or sensor measurements to provide weather predictions for anindividual and/or user. In addition, a weather process may also alertindividuals and/or users as to inclimate conditions before theseconditions occur.

In embodiments, computer-readable and computer-executable instructionsmay be fetched from a non-volatile memory in an integrated computingdevice, loaded into a volatile memory, and may be executed by aprocessor in a computing device to recognize an individuals' voiceand/or to perform a voice recognition process. This may occur inresponse to a user selecting a voice recognition button or icon on adashboard of a shading object application software. In embodiments, ashading object central support assembly may also comprise one or moremicrophones. In embodiments, a shading object fabric, arms/blades and/orshading object arm support assemblies may comprise one or moremicrophones installed or attached thereto, or integrated within. Inembodiments, for example, a user in a physical vicinity of a shadingobject may speak into a microphone, located on or within the shadingobject may capture a user's voice and generate an analog voice signal.In embodiments, an analog-to-digital converter may convert a voice to adigital signal and transfer the voice digital signal to a shading objectcomputing device. In embodiments, a shading object computing devicesystem may analyze the received digital voice, extract commands orinformation, and generate instructions based on the received digitalvoice signal. In embodiments, a computing device voice recognitionprocess may recognize a voice command in a communicated voice signal,and then convert a recognized voice command into a text (or digitalrepresentation) command. In embodiments, the text command (or otherdigital representation of the command) may be communicated to otherPCBs, subassemblies, and/or components of an intelligent shading objectand/or umbrella. In embodiments, if commands are successfully convertedand/or executed, a computing device voice recognition process maygenerate a confirmation audio signal. The computing device 860 maycommunicate the confirmation audio signal to an audio system 875 and/orspeakers 940. In embodiments, these instructions may be communicated toother PCBs, subsystems, subassemblies, and/or components of anintelligent shading object or umbrella in order to comply or react tovoice instructions. For example, an integrated computing device mayextract from a received voice signal, a command to obtain sensormeasurements, (e.g., sunlight intensity, ozone, and/or wind measurementsor reading). In embodiments, a computing device voice recognitionprocess may provide support for additional commands as compared to avoice recognition engine 815. In embodiments, a computing device voicerecognition process may allow for more customization (e.g., additionalcommands, dialects and/or languages) and be more directed to interactingwith an intelligent shading object and/or umbrella. In embodiments, acomputing device voice recognition process may integrate with anartificial intelligence voice engine. In embodiments, an artificialintelligence voice engine may be located in an integrated computingdevice. In embodiments, a computing device voice recognition process maycommunicate a voice signal to an artificial intelligence voice enginelocated in an external computing device. In this illustrativeembodiment, a computing device 860 may communicate audio signals(including voice commands) to the external computing device, where theartificial intelligence voice engine may translated the audio signal totext or another digital representation, and then communicate the text ordigital representation of the audio signal back to the computing device860 for use by the computing device voice recognition process. Inembodiments, a computing device 860 may also comprise a voice synthesisprocess for generating audio signals (e.g., including commands, promptsor responses) and communicating these audio signals to an audio system875 and/or one or more speakers. In embodiments, In embodiments,computer-readable and computer-executable instructions may be fetchedfrom a non-volatile memory in an intelligent shading object, loaded intoa volatile memory, and may be executed by a processor in a shadingobject computing device 860 to generate audio signals (e.g., synthesizespeech and/or voice) and/or perform a voice synthesis process. Inembodiments, a computing device voice synthesis process generates voicecommands, responses or alerts and allows an intelligent shading objector umbrella to speak to an individual.

In embodiments, an integrated computing device system may communicate(e.g., through wireless transceivers, wires, and/or circuit traces) witha shading object movement control PCB 895. In response, a shading objectmovement control PCB 895 may communicate with a weather variables PCB810 to obtain sensor measurements from sensors coupled to and/orconnected to a weather variables PCB 810. In embodiments, sensors mayobtain measurements and may communicate these measurements to a weathervariables PCB 810, a shading object control PCB 895, and/or to a shadingobject computing device 860. In embodiments, obtained measurements maybe stored (for later use and/or analyzation) in a memory 1030 or 1035 ofa shading object computing device 860, may be communicate via a soundsystem to a user, or may be displayed via a mobile software application.

In embodiments, in another illustrative example, a user may provideverbal instructions to rotate a shading object, a shading objectcomputing device 860 may process the voice signal as described above(e.g., employing voice analyzation and/or voice recognition, andtransmit instructions and/or commands to a first motor controller tocause a first motor to rotate a shading object a specified number ofdegrees (e.g., about a vertical axis). In embodiments, a user mayprovide verbal commands to a shading object remotely. For example, auser may provide verbal instructions to a mobile communication device(e.g., a smartphone), which may communicate the voice commands via awireless communications protocol and/or Bluetooth to an audio/videoreceiver (e.g., a Bluetooth-enabled receiver) on the shading object. Inthis example embodiment, an audio/video receiver may communicate thevoice-commands to a voice-recognition engine 815 which may convert theremotely-transmitted speech and communicate signals to thecontroller/processor, which may then operate in a manner describedabove.

In embodiments, a shading object may comprise a control panel (notshown). In embodiments, a control panel may comprise an input screenand/or a controller. In embodiments, an input screen may be a touchscreen and/or a screen receptive to receiving electronic input via apen. In embodiments, a control panel may present a graphical userinterface with menu items to allow a user to control and/or operate manycomponents of a shading object. In embodiments, a shading object mayalso comprise an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display 1425 (seeFIG. 14). In embodiments, an OLED display may be a control panel. Inembodiments, an OLED display 1425 may be a diagnostics monitor. Inembodiments, an OLED display may display messages from a motion controlPCB, a computing device, external computing devices, and/or a portableelectronic device.

In embodiments, computer-readable and computer-executable instructionsmay be fetched from a non-volatile memory, loaded into a volatilememory, and may be executed by a processor in a computing device tooperate a security system and/or to perform a home security process.This may occur in response to a user selecting a home security button oricon on a dashboard of a shading object mobile and/or softwareapplication. Operation of a home security process (or home securityportion of a software application) may be controlled by a shading objectcomputing device. In embodiments, a home security process (e.g.,initiated by selection in a shading object mobile application or anothershading object software application) may receive communicated liveand/or almost real-time video feeds and quality of image readings. Inembodiments, the video and/or image feeds may be stored in a memory 1030or 1035 of a shading object computing device, a memory of a cloudserver, a memory of an application server, and/or databases. Inembodiments, an integrated computing device 860 can analyze video and/orimages and issue safety alerts based on analyzation of video and/orimages, motion detector activity, and/or over threshold air qualityreadings from an air quality sensor. In embodiments, an integratedcomputing device 860 may communicate video and/or images to an externaldevice, such as an existing home security application server, such asADT Security, which could enhance ADTs security capabilities, and/oralso provide a platform for cross-promotion of security system software.In embodiments, an integrated computing device 860 may execute a homesecurity process and communicate video and/or images, with or withoutsound, to emergency responders (e.g., police, fire, security responders,FEMA) to aid in dealing with emergency situations.

In embodiments, computer-readable and computer-executable instructionsmay be fetched from a non-volatile memory, loaded into a volatilememory, and may be executed by a processor in an integrated computingdevice to perform a personal health process. This may occur in responseto a user selecting a health button or icon on a dashboard of a shadingobject application software system. Operation of a health process maycomprise shading object sensors (air quality and UV radiation sensors)providing information to a shading object computing device 860 (directlyor through a shading object movement control PCB). In embodiments, theshading object measurements may be stored in a memory of an integratedcomputing device, a memory of a cloud server, a memory of an applicationserver, and/or databases. In embodiments, a UV sensor 812 may provide UVindex measurements and total UV exposure. In embodiments, an air qualitysensor 811 may provide air quality readings within a microclimate of ashading object. In embodiments, a computing device 860 may receivesensor measurements, analyze the communicated measurements, and comparethese measurements against personal health parameters and/oruser-defined tolerances. In embodiments, a computing device 860 maygenerate alerts based on the comparison. In embodiments, alerts may begenerated for family members and/or pets.

In embodiments, computer-readable and computer-executable instructionsmay be fetched from a non-volatile memory, loaded into a volatilememory, and may be executed by a processor in a computing device toperform an energy process. This may occur in response to a userselecting an energy button or icon on a dashboard of a shading objectmobile and/or software application. Operation of an energy process mayprovide visibility into an energy glow into and out of a shading objectsystem and can present information regarding a value of utilizing solarenergy. In embodiments, an integrated computing device 860 may receive,directly or indirectly, solar power readings for one or more shadingobject solar cells 825 and/or a power tracking solar charger 830. Inembodiments, an energy process may calculate money saved by utilizingsolar power by comparing power utilized by solar object at a currentutility rate. The energy process may calculate these savings based onpower utilized by specific hardware PCBs and/or components, such aslights, speakers, and/or cameras. In embodiments, an energy process cantransfer solar power calculations to home automation providers (e.g.,Nest) which could enhance an efficiency of these systems (and anavailability of these systems) by sharing solar power energy informationas well as sensor information with home automation providers. Inembodiments, if a shading object is not utilizing solar power, surplussolar power may be transferred back to an energy grid (either via an ACadapter and/or through home automation provider servers).

In embodiments, computer-readable and computer-executable instructionsmay be fetched from a non-volatile memory, loaded into a volatilememory, and may be executed by a processor in a computing device toperform storage and/or backup process. This may occur in response to auser selecting a storage and/or backup button or icon on a dashboard ofa shading object mobile and/or software application. Operation of astorage process may comprise an individual selecting a storage and/orbackup icon and/or menu item (or providing a voice for a voicerecognition command). In embodiments, for example, cameras may generatevideos and/or images, with or without sound, and communicate the videoand/or images to a shading object computing device. In embodiments, thecommunicated video and/or images may be stored in a memory of anintegrated computing device or an external memory and/or storage device(databases, memories of application servers and/or cloud servers). Inembodiments, an integrated computing device may receive storage and/orvideo/image settings to determine a composition of images and/or videosto be stored (e.g., video quality, length of storage, FPS). Inembodiments, onboard sensor readings from shading object sensors mayalso be stored. In embodiments, users may also opt-in and allow anintegrated computing device to transfer video and/or images to localemergency service providers with live feeds during emergency events(e.g., fires, earthquakes, and extreme weather). In embodiments,SMARTSHADE and/or SHADECRAFT application software executing on anintegrated computing device may also provide storage or access tostorage for individual's personal information, preferences, and/ordigital products. In embodiments, an individual may need additionalstorage for personal information and/or data such as photos, emails,messages, videos, etc. In embodiments, a shading object may havesettings customized for one or more embodiments. In embodiments, anindividual may select a backup menu item on a shading object mobilesoftware application and settings may be backed up into a memory of anapplication server. In embodiments, if a shading object is replaced,settings can be restored by selecting a restore option and retrievingsettings form an application server memory. In embodiments, anindividual can also backup information stored on a portable electronicdevice to application server memory. For example, this information maybe photos, emails, messages, videos, etc. In embodiments, home securityvideo or video captured by shading object cameras may be stored inmemory components 1030 and 1035 of an integrated computing device. Inembodiments, videos may be erased after a certain period of time and/ormay be communicated and stored in an off-site storage (e.g., applicationserver and/or database). In embodiments, weather or environmentalinformation along with shade usage, shade component usage statistics,and/or shade component maintenance information may also be communicatedfrom a wireless transceiver to an access point (e.g., a shading objectcomputing device hotspot or an external access point) to an applicationserver and/or database for storage and/or later retrieval. For example,an integrated computing device 860 may keep track of how many timesand/or for how long a motor is operated or efficiency of charging of abattery.

In embodiments, user behavior characteristics may be desired by manyorganizations. In embodiments, a shading object and its multiplecomponents may generate data which may be desirable to third parties.For example, obtained weather information, air quality readings, UVreadings, wind readings, and user selections in a software applicationand/or other shading object or umbrella features. In embodiments, thisraw information may be licensed to third parties as real-time or nearreal-time user information. In embodiments, access to different typesand/or scope of data may be a basis for different subscription models.In embodiments, data on in-app purchases (via e-commerce features) mayprovide insight into decisions that shading object individual ownersmake (e.g., drivers behind consumer spending patterns). In embodiments,third parties may be able to purchase ad-space on Shadecraft devicesand/or assemblies. In embodiments, utilizing obtained sensor dataobtained from a shading object, a third party could deliver targeted adsbased on region, climate, user behavior, as well as other metrics. Inembodiments, in-app purchasing ability may give advertisers data onconversion rates & revenue, making ad space more valuable because adsuccess may be tracked and/or refined. In embodiments, revenue sharingmodels may also increase ad revenue and incentivize commercial customersto utilize shading objects and/or shading object application software.

Sun and other environmental and/or weather conditions may damage anindividual's skin or impact an individuals' health. In embodiments,SMARTSHADE application software may provide a user with medicalmonitoring features and/or functionality. In embodiments, for example, ashading object system may detect a user is within a shading area. Inembodiments, a shading object system may activate a camera to capture animage of the individual. In embodiments, a captured image may becompared to images stored in a memory of a shading object system toidentify if an individual is known by a shading object system. Inembodiments, facial recognition may be performed on the image to assistin identifying an individual. Continuing with this illustrative example,if an individual is not known and/or recognized, characteristics of anindividual's image may be stored in a memory of a shading object systemfor future reference. In embodiments, characteristics may include haircolor, hair length and/or scalp coverage, skin color and/or skin tone,number of freckles, presences of moles and/or lesions. In embodiments,characteristics may comprise medical history such as respiratoryillnesses (e.g., asthma), skin cancer, heart conditions, etc. Inembodiments where an individual is recognized, a shading objectcomputing device 860 may retrieve a user's characteristics and/ormeasurements. In embodiments, a shading object computing device mayretrieve and/or capture environmental conditions. For example, a shadingobject computing device may retrieve an air quality measurement, anozone measurement, a sunlight intensity measurement, a humiditymeasurement, and/or a temperature measurement. In embodiments, a shadingobject computing device may analyze the retrieved individualcharacteristics and/or the received environmental conditions and providerecommendations to an individual as potential actions. For example, ifan air quality measurement is low or poor and an individual has asthma,a shading object computing device 860 may provide recommendations for anindividual to make sure they have their asthma medication and/or limittheir time in the environment. As another illustrative example, if anindividual's characteristics indicate that an individual and/or anindividual's family has a history of skin cancer, a local time isbetween 10:00 am and 3:00 pm (highest portion of sunlight, and there isno cloud cover, a shading object computing device may generaterecommendations such as requesting that a user stay within a shadingarea and/or apply sunscreen. In addition, a shading object computingdevice may analyze the individual's image, identify that a user issunburned, and may recommend that an individual apply aloe or skinconditioner to a sunburn and/or stay within a shading area.

In embodiments, a shading object computing device 860 may also captureimages of an individual and transfer these images (either still imagesand/or video images) to a third party provider. In embodiments, a thirdparty provider may be a medical professional (e.g., like adermatologist, a surgeon, or a general practitioner). In embodiments, amedical professional may analyze an image and/or videos and provide anindividual with feedback related to an image. For example, a shadingobject system camera 857 may capture an image of a mole on anindividual's chest and/or back. A medical professional may provide apreliminary evaluation of an individual and provide a recommendation toa user for future actions. In embodiments, a shading object systemcamera 857 may provide a video of an individual's movement after, forexample, a surgery. In embodiments, images and/or videos may be providedin real-time, e.g., such as in a Snapchat and/or Facetime. Inembodiments, images may be communicated from a shading object camera 857through a wireless transceiver 1010 or 865 to an access point and onto aglobal communications network such as the Internet. In embodiments,images and/or videos may be communicated through a mobile applicationserver (middleware) to an application server (e.g., a SMARTSHADE and/orSHADECRAFT application server). In embodiments, images and/or videos maybe communicated through the Internet to a medical professional's webserver, for example.

In embodiments, SMARTSHADE and/or SHADECRAFT application software (thesoftware being instructions loaded into memory of a smartphone, a mobileapplication server and/or application server). This may be referred toas a shading object system. In embodiments, a shading object system maycontrol operations of a shading object utilizing the SMARTSHADE and/orSHADECRAFT application software. For example, a portable electronicdevice may present a menu of options for controlling one or more shadingobject components. In embodiments, an individual may select a menu itemof a shading object mobile app, which may result in commands and/orinstructions being transmitted to different components of a shadingobject and actions being performed. In embodiments, shading objectcomponents, after receiving commands and/or instructions, may generatemeasurements. In embodiments, a shading object may communicate thesemessages to a shading object computing device 860. In embodiments,measurements may be stored in a memory and/or displayed on a monitor1425 of a shading object computing device. In embodiments, a shadingobject component may communicate an acknowledgement message and/or astatus indicator to a shading computing device system, which may bestored in a memory and/or displaying on a shading object computingdevice. In embodiments, a shading computing device system may controloperation of multiple shading objects. For example, an individual maycontrol operation of any of the motors in a number of shading objects invia a shading object mobile application on a portable electronic device(e.g., may cause a stem assembly and a central support assembly torotate around a base assembly). For example, a shading object controlprocess may request measurements from one or more sensors (e.g.,sunlight sensors, air quality sensors, tilt sensors). In addition, ashading object control process may activate and/or operate a camera.

Shading Object Accessory Commerce—

In embodiments, a shading object computing device and/or mobile app mayallow individuals to purchase, replace and/or return shading objectaccessories. In embodiments, a shading object computing device and/ormobile app may present a user with various accessories for purchase. Forexample, an individual may be able to purchase shading objectarms/blades, shading fabric, batteries or solar cells for a shadingobject. In embodiments, a shading object computing device and/or mobileapplication may also present a menu item allowing individuals to connectto Internet and purchase items from other e-commerce web sites.

In embodiments, a shading object computing device and mobile app mayallow individuals to diagnose problems with shading object operation. Inembodiments, an individual may initiate diagnostics for a shading objectby selection of a menu item in a mobile device application. Inembodiments, commands, instructions and/or signals may be communicatedto components of a shading object. Measurements and/or signals may bereceived back from components and if these measurements and/or signalsexceed a threshold, a shading object computing device and/or mobileapplication may generate an error condition and/or message. Inembodiments, this error condition and/or message may be communicated toa display 1425. For example, diagnostics may be run on any one of thefirst, second and/or third motors. In addition, diagnostics may be runon any one of shading object sensors (e.g., environmental sensors, tiltsensor, motion or proximity sensors).

In embodiments, an intelligent shading object or umbrella may be adevice on an Internet of Things (IoT). In embodiments, an Internet ofThings (IoT) may be a network of physical objects—sensors, devices,vehicles, buildings, and other electronic devices. These objects maycomprise items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and networkconnectivity, which enables these physical objects to collect andexchange data with each other and/or with servers connected via a globalcommunications network (e.g., an Internet). In embodiments, the IoT maysense and/or control objects across existing wireless communicationnetwork infrastructure an global communications network infrastructure.In embodiments, integrating of devices via IoT may create opportunitiesfor more direct integration of a physical world into computer-basedsystems, which may result in improved efficiency, accuracy and economicbenefit. In addition, when IoT is augmented with sensors and actuators,IoT may be integrated or enabled with a more general class ofcyber-physical systems, e.g., smart grids, smart homes, intelligenttransportation and smart cities. In embodiments, in IoT, for example,may be uniquely identifiable through its embedded computing system butis able to interoperate within the existing Internet infrastructure. Ifa shading object is integrated into IoT, for example, a shading objectmay be part of a smart home and/or smart office. For example, a shadingobject enable with IoT capability, because it may incorporate cameras,may be able to communicate with or be integrated into a home or officesecurity system. Further, if an individual has a smart home, anindividual may be able to control operation of, or communicate with anintelligent shading object or umbrella as part of an existing smart homesoftware application (either via a smart phone, mobile communicationdevice, tablet, and/or computer). In addition, an intelligent shadingobject, if part of IoT, may be able to interface with, communicate withand interact with an existing home security system. Likewise, anintelligent shading object may be able to be an additional soundreproducer (e.g., via speaker(s)) for a home audio and/or video systemthat is also on the IoT. In addition, an intelligent shading object maybe able to integrate itself with an electronic calendar (stored on acomputing device) and become part of a notification or alarm systembecause it will identify when upcoming meetings are occurring. Inembodiments, an intelligent shading computing device may utilizeartificial intelligence to determine which music to play from a portableelectronic device. In embodiments, a memory of an intelligent shadingobject may have user playlist information, e.g., genre played duringcertain timeframes, favorites, song played at specific times. Inembodiments, an integrated computing device 860 may receive a request toplay music and may select a playlist of music based on user'spreferences and or usage factors. After a playlist is selected, ashading object computing device 860 may stream selected music from anindividual's portable electronic device through a wireless networktransceiver and to a sound reproduction system.

In embodiments, a shading object computing device 860 may havecomputer-readable instructions, stored in a non-volatile memory, whichwhen executed by a processor, may execute an artificial intelligenceprocess and may provide artificial intelligence functionality. Forexample, a shading office computing device 860 may receive measurementsfrom environmental sensors, as described above, analyze themeasurements, and make recommendations to users regarding sun exposure,heat exposure, and/or hydration. For example, a shading object computingsystem 860 may receive and analyze temperature measurements and sunintensity measurements, and based on the analysis, provide arecommendation to a shading object user how long the user should be outin the environment or when an individual should hydrate if in theenvironment. In addition, an individual can input health risk factors,and a shading object computing device 860 may also consider health riskfactors when making a recommendation. For example, if a temperature ishigh and humidity is high, and a user has a heart condition, a shadingobject computing device system may recommend that a user only spend 30minutes under a shading object and that during this time, the individualshould drink eight ounces of water.

In embodiments, an integrated computing device 860 may also recommendshading object positioning throughout a day based on weather forecastingand/or sun tracking. In embodiments, a shading object computing devicemay have stored previous positions of different portions of a shadingobject (e.g., rotation angle of a stem assembly, angle of an upperassembly 112 with respect to a lower assembly 113 of a central supportassembly), and may provide a recommendation of a starting shade positionbased on previous positions of different portions of a shading object.In addition, a shading object computing device 860 may also considercurrent environmental factors when making recommendations of a shadingobject starting position and/or positions throughout a day. In addition,a computing device 860 may consider environmental factors and/or sensorreadings and provide a recommendation of when sunburn may occur if 1) nosunscreen is used; 2) sunscreen with a specific sun protection factor(SPF) is used; and/or 3) sunscreen is used in a partly cloudyenvironment.

In embodiments, a computing device 860 integrated into a shading obector umbrella may communicate with or interface with an externalartificial intelligence system, such as the Amazon Alexa system or theGoogle Now system. In embodiments, a user may speak into a microphonelocated on or integrated within a shading object central supportassembly 107 (for example) and ask questions or make requests. Thesevoice signals are converted by the shading object computing device 860and/or a voice recognition engine or module 815, as discussedpreviously, and communicated to an external artificial intelligencesystem (Amazon Alexa and/or Google Now) via a wireless transceiver, aPAN transceiver, and/or a wireless hotspot. In embodiments, a shadingobject computing device 860 may also comprise an artificial intelligenceengine, which may be located on a computing device PCB and performsimilar functions to an external artificial intelligence engine (such asAmazon Alexa and/or Google Now). In embodiments, an external artificialintelligence engine may responds to requests, transfer requests to otherapplication servers for processing, and/or perform analysis based on auser request. After an action has been performed and responses and/orconfirmations obtained, the external artificial intelligence engine maycommunicate the responses, answers, and/or confirmations to a shadingobject computing device. An integrated computing device may provide theresponses, answer, and/or confirmations to an individual via a soundreproducing apparatus (e.g., speakers) and/or a visual display apparatus(display, monitor, and/or screen).

In embodiments, a shading computing device may also detect obstacles ina shading area of the shading object. In embodiments, an obstacle may bein a path or orbit of where a shading object may be moving (e.g., aperson may be located in an area where shading arm supports are to bedeployed and/or a lamp or other object may be in an area where an upperassembly of the central support assembly is being moved in response to acommand. In embodiments, a shading object computing device 860 mayreceive an image or images from one or more shading object camera. Inembodiments, a shading object computing device 860 may analyze thecaptured images and determine if a person and/or object (e.g., anobstacle) is in a path of travel of one or more shading objectcomponents. If a shading object computing system determines an obstacleis present, a notification may be communicated to an individual. Inembodiments, a notification is sent to a sound system, and an alarmand/or voice warning may be sent out over a shading object speaker. Inembodiments, a notification may be sent to a control panel and/or aportable electronic device and a communicated notification message maybe displayed to a user. In embodiments, a shading object computingdevice may communicate commands, instructions and/or signals tocontrollers and/or controller PCBs to cause motors (e.g., a first,second or third motor) to stop movement, or to redirect movement awayfrom a located obstacle. In embodiments, a shading object computingdevice 860 may continue to communicate notifications and/or commands,instructions and/or signals until an obstacle moves away from an area ofconcern (or shading area) or is removed from an area of concern (orshading area). In embodiments, a shading object computing device mayalso receive notifications, commands, instructions and/or signals fromproximity sensors and/or motion sensors, and identify if an obstacle isin a movement path of one or more of a shading objects assemblies and/orcomponents. If a shading object computing device 860 identifies anobstacle, then, as discussed above, notifications may be sent toportable electronic devices and/or sound systems, and commands,instructions, and/or signals may be communicated to controllers and/orcontroller PCBs for motors in order to stop a motor's operation and/orredirect a direction of an assembly's movement path.

In embodiments, multiple shading objects may be coupled together. Inembodiments, by coupling multiple shading objects together mechanicallyand/or electrically, an individual may be able to operate and controlintelligent shading objects or umbrellas in unison (e.g., in otherwords, same or similar commands, instructions, and/or signals may besent to multiple shading objects by a single control computing devcie).In addition, if solar cells are generating an excess power, e.g., morethan is necessary for a single rechargeable battery, excess power may betransferred to a rechargeable battery in another shading object coupledto an original shading object. In embodiments, if there is excess powergenerated by solar cells in a number of coupled shading objects andother local shading objects may not utilize the power, a shading objectmay transfer and/or relay excess power to an electricity grid and anindividual may receive discounts and/or credits for any power deliveredback to a grid. In embodiments, a portable electronic device, through ashading object mobile application, may control multiple coupled shadingobjects. In embodiments, a laptop or other computing device may controlmultiple coupled shading objects. In embodiments, multiple shadingobjects may communicate with each other via a personal area network. Inembodiments, multiple shading objects may communicate with each othervia wireless LAN transceivers.

In embodiments, a cable comprising data, control and power lines may beconnected and/or attached between shading objects. In embodiments, acable may be housed in a base assembly 105 and may extend to a powerconnector on another shading object. In embodiments, a cable may behoused in a stem assembly 106 and/or a center support assembly 107 andmay extend to a power connector on another shading object.

In embodiments, a shading object may comprise an automatic button and amanual button. In embodiments, if a manual button is depressed and/orselected, a shading object may need to be operated in a manual fashion.In embodiments, a shading object may comprise a shutoff button oractuator. In embodiments, if an emergency situation occurs and a shadingobject needs to be deactivated and/or retracted, then an individual canpress the shutoff button or actuator. For example, if high winds occur,a fire is in the area, or all wireless communications are cut off, anindividual can immediately deactivate and/or shutdown a shading object.

In embodiments, a base assembly may also a base motor controller PCB, abase motor, a drive assembly and/or wheels. In embodiments, a baseassembly may move to track movement of the sun, wind conditions, and/oran individual's commands. In embodiments, a shading object movementcontrol PCB may send commands, instructions, and/or signals to a baseassembly identifying desired movements of a base assembly. Inembodiments, a shading computing device system (including a SMARTSHADEand/or SHADECRAFT application) or a desktop computer application maytransmit commands, instructions, and/or signals to a base assemblyidentifying desired movements of a base assembly. In embodiments, a basemotor controller PCB may receive commands, instructions, and/or signalsand may communicate commands and/or signals to a base motor. Inembodiments, a base motor may receive commands and/or signals, which mayresult in rotation of a motor shaft. In embodiments, a motor shaft maybe connected, coupled, or indirectly coupled (through gearing assembliesor other similar assemblies) to one or more drive assemblies. Inembodiments, a drive assembly may be one or more axles, where one ormore axles may be connected to wheels. In embodiments, for example, abase assembly may receive commands, instructions and/or signal to rotatein a counterclockwise direction approximately 15 degrees. Inembodiments, for example, a motor output shaft would rotate one or moredrive assemblies rotate a base assembly approximately 15 degrees. Inembodiments, a base assembly may comprise more than one motor and/ormore than one drive assembly. In this illustrative embodiment, each ofmotors may be controlled independently from one another and may resultin a wider range or movements and more complex movements.

In embodiments, a shading object may also comprise a wind turbine 866.In embodiments, one or more wind turbines 866 may be installed and/orpositioned on a shading fabric 715, shading object arms/blades 109,and/or arm support assemblies 108. In embodiments, one or more windturbines may be installed and/or positioned on a central supportassembly. In embodiments, one or more wind turbines 866 may comprise oneor more propeller-like blades, which are turned my energy of the wind.In embodiments, one or more blades may be moved about a rotor, which isconnected to a shaft, causing rotation of a shaft. Rotation of a shaftmay spin a generator which results in generation of electricity (e.g.,voltage and/or current). In embodiments, a wind turbine generator 866may be connected to a rechargeable battery 820 and may supply power torecharge a battery. In embodiments, a wind turbine generator 866 may beconnected to other shading object components and provide power (e.g.,voltage and/or current) to other shading object components.

In embodiments, a shading object stem assembly 106 may be comprised ofstainless steel. In embodiments, a shading object stem may be comprisedof a plastic and/or a composite material, or a combination of materialslisted above. In embodiments, a shading object stem assembly 106, a baseassembly 105, and/or a center support assembly 107 may be comprisedand/or constructed by a biodegrable material. In embodiments, a shadingobject stem assembly 106 may be tubular with a hollow inside except forshelves, ledges, and/or supporting assemblies. In embodiments, a shadingobject stem assembly 106 may have a coated inside surface. Inembodiments, a shading object stem assembly 106 may have a circularcircumference or a square circumference. In embodiments, a shadingobject stem assembly 106 may be a separate physical structure from ashading object center support assembly 107. In embodiments, a shadingobject stem assembly and a shading object or umbrella center supportassembly may be one physical structure. In embodiments, for example, ashading object stem assembly 106 and a shading object center supportassembly 107 may be comprised of one extruded material (e.g., a singletubular structure of, for example, stainless steel).

In embodiments, a shading object center support assembly 107 may becomprised of stainless steel. In embodiments, a shading object centersupport assembly 107 may be comprised of a metal, plastic and/or acomposite material, or a combination thereof. In embodiments, a shadingobject center support assembly 107 may be comprised of wood, steel,aluminum or fiberglass. In embodiments, a shading object center supportassembly may be a tubular structure, e.g., may have a circular or anoval circumference. In embodiments, a shading object center supportassembly 107 may be a rectangular or triangular structure with a hollowinterior. In embodiments, a hollow interior of a shading object centersupport assembly 107 may have a shelf or other structures for holding orattaching assemblies, PCBs, and/or electrical and/or mechanicalcomponents. In embodiments, for example components, PCBs, and/or motorsmay be attached or connected to an interior wall of a shading objectcenter assembly.

In embodiments, a plurality of arms/blades 109 and/or arm supportassemblies 108 may be composed of materials such as plastics, plasticcomposites, fabric, metals, woods, composites, or any combinationthereof. In an example embodiment, arms/blades 109 and/or arm supportassemblies 109 may be made of a flexible material. In an alternativeexample embodiment, arms/blades 109 and/or arm support assemblies 108may be made of a stiffer material.

In embodiments, a shading object center support assembly 107 may alsoinclude a light sensor (not shown). In embodiments, a light sensor maybe integrated into a center support assembly 107 or may be disposed on asurface of a central support assembly 107. In an embodiment, a lightsensor may detect a direction having a highest light energy (intensity).In embodiments, a light sensor may be implemented as a single lightsensor or may comprise multiple light sensors arranged in a fashion tocollect light from different directions. In example embodiments, a lightsensor may identify that a sun (or a light source) is directly overheador a sun may be located at an angle of 45 degrees from directlyoverhead.

In embodiments, a center support assembly 107 may comprise an audiotransceiver 865 and/or speakers 875. An audio device, such as an iPhone,a digital music player, or the like, may be electronically coupled tothe audio transceiver 865 and transmit and/or receive audio signals fromthe audio device. In an embodiment, an audio transceiver 865 may receiveaudio signals and transfer audio signals to the speakers 875 so thatspeakers may reproduce and play sound for shading object users to hear.In an embodiment, audio signals may be transmitted wirelessly betweenthe audio device and the audio transceiver 865, and/or the audioreceiver 865 and the speaker 875.

In embodiments, a shading object may also further comprise anillumination or projection source that can project light and/or videosonto surfaces of a shading object, arms/blades and/or shading fabric. Inexample embodiments, an illumination source may project light onto asurface of one or more of the arms/blades and/or shading fabric.Alternatively, or in addition to, in an embodiment, an illuminationsource may project an image and/or video onto surfaces of one or more ofa plurality of arms/blades and/or shading fabric.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a block diagram of multiple componentswithin a shading object. The shade object system 1300 includes userinterfaces such as a keypad 1302, a display 1304 (e.g., such as a LCDdisplay), and/or a touchscreen 1306. In an embodiment, user interfacesmay be part of a control panel which may be used to input instructionsto an intelligent shading object. For example, a user could use thetouchscreen to enter instructions or commands to cause a shading objectto open or deploy shading elements, play music, project light ontosurfaces, adjust shading elements to move shading area, provide mistingand/or fog in shading area, and other similar actions. In an embodiment,a touchscreen may be on a computing device (e.g., which may be personalcomputer, a laptop, a network computer, a tablet, and/or a smart phone).In an embodiment, a control panel (including one or more of the keypad1302, display 1304, and touchscreen 1306) may be mounted to a supportframe of the shading object or may be integrated into a remove controldevice that communicates with controllers or processors in anintelligent shading object 1300 via wireless or wired communicationprotocol.

In an embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 13, a shading object system1300 may include a processor 1308, a clock 1301, a memory subsystem1307, and/or glue logic 1376. Glue logic 1376 may allow differentcomponents within an intelligent shading object system to interface witheach other. For example, glue logic 1376 may allow a processor 1308, amemory subsystem 1307 and/or a clock 1301 to interface with one another.In an embodiment, a processor 1308 interfaces with many components of anintelligent shading object 1300. As a non-limiting example, a processor1308 may directly, or indirectly, interface with a touch screen 1306, adisplay 1304, the keypad 1302, an audio amplifier 1380, a stepper motorinterfaces 1370, and a transceiver 1310 for receiving Global NavigationSatellite Systems, Blue Tooth and WiFi signals, a battery managementsystem 1336, as well as many other components.

In an embodiment, a memory subsystem 1307 may comprise memory such asFLASH ROM, RAM, and/or SDRAM. In an embodiment, FLASH ROM and/or SDRAMmay be utilized to store software and instructions, which whenexecutable by a processor or processors 1308 and/or controllers, maycause an intelligent shading object system to perform operations andreceive and/or transmit information. In an embodiment, FLASH ROM may beupdated with new software and/or instructions. In an embodiment, RAM orSDRAM of a memory subsystem 1037 may be utilized as memory that is usedby a processor 1308 to execute programs and perform software operations.In an embodiment, a clock 1301 may provide a timing reference for aprocessor 1308.

In an embodiment, a shading object system 1300 may also comprise atransceiver 1310 for receiving information from outside systems such asGlobal Positioning Satellites, Bluetooth-enabled computing devices,and/or WiFi-enabled computing devices. In an embodiment, a transceiver1310 may comprise an antenna 1311, a Bluetooth transceiver 1313, a GNSStransceiver 1312, and/or a WiFi transceiver 1314. In an embodiment, aGNSS transceiver 1312 may utilize the antenna 1311 to receive GPSsignals from GPS satellites and gather positioning information for anintelligent shading object system 1300. In an embodiment, positioninginformation may allow an intelligent shading object system to receiveweather (e.g., temperature, humidity, wind) information, and/or predictenvironmental information by receiving predictions from an almanacand/or other weather forecasting system. In an embodiment, positioninginformation may also allow a subsystem to understand potential intensityand strength of sun in the location where an intelligent shading objectresides. For example, if a positioning information indicates the shadingobject system 1300 is located in a Mojave Desert in California, thenpositioning information lets a shading object system may know anintensity of a sun is higher in a Mojave Desert than in a northernportion of Alaska.

In an embodiment, a Bluetooth transceiver 1313 may utilize an antenna1311 to receive and/or transmit signals and/or information to otherBluetooth-enabled devices. For example, in an embodiment, a user mayutilize a mobile phone with Bluetooth capabilities to control operationof an intelligent shading object system and/or to stream audio and/orvideo to an intelligent shading object system 1300 for playing viaspeakers 1381 and/or headphones 1382 (after passing through a processoror controller 1308 and an audio amplifier 1380). In addition, in anembodiment, a WiFi transceiver 1314 may utilize an antenna 1311 toreceive and/or transmit signals and/or information to other electronicdevices having WiFi capabilities. For example, a user may utilize amobile phone with WiFi capabilities to control operation of a shadingobject system and/or to stream audio and/or video to an intelligentshading object system 1300 for playing via speakers 1381 and/orheadphones 1382. In addition, a WiFi transceiver 1314 and/or Bluetoothtransceiver 1313 may be utilized to communicate with a light or videoprojector (not shown) (e.g., transmit video and/or audio signals to theprojection device) which may project video and/or light onto a pluralityof shading elements of a shading subsystem 1300. Communications with aspeaker 1381 and/or headphones 1382 and/or projector may occur after atransceiver 1310 has sent signals through a processor/controller 1308,and/or an amplifier 1380 (for audio signals).

In an embodiment, an intelligent shading object system 1300 may alsoinclude a power subsystem. In an embodiment, a power subsystem mayinclude an AC power adapter 1327, DC power devices 1328 (e.g., carchargers), solar photovoltaic panels 1330, a rechargeable battery 1335(such as a Lithium-Polymer Rechargeable Battery (LIPO)), and a batterymanagement system 1336. In an embodiment, an AC power adapter 1327 mayreceive power from an AC power source 1326, which may also include afuse. In an embodiment, an AC power adapter may provide power to asystem power supply 1337 and/or battery 1335. Similarly, in anembodiment, a DC charger 1328 (which may include a fuse), may providevoltage and/or current to a system power supply 1337 and/or arechargeable battery 1335. In an embodiment, an overvoltage protectioncircuit 1329 may protect a system power supply 1337 and/or a battery1335 from overvoltage spikes in providing of voltage and current toother components in an intelligent shading object system.

In an embodiment, solar photovoltaic panels 1330 may provide voltage andcurrent to a system power supply 1337 and/or a rechargeable battery1337. In an illustrative embodiment, solar photovoltaic panels 1330 maybe coupled to an overvoltage protection module 1329 to protect a shadingobject system from overvoltage conditions. In addition, in anembodiment, solar photovoltaic panels 1330 may be coupled or connectedto a power storage system before transferring voltage to a system powersupply 1337 and/or a rechargeable battery 1135. In an embodiment, abattery management subsystem 1336 may provide DC power to a shadingobject system 1300. A battery management subsystem 1336 may include afuel gauge module 1337 to identify how much power is in a shading objectsystem 1300. This information may be provided to a processor 1308 andthen displayed on a LCD display 1304 and/or touch screen 1306. In anillustrative embodiment, a battery management system 1336 may alsoinclude a battery protection circuit 1339 to protect the battery fromovervoltage, overcurrent, undervoltage and/or undercurrent conditions.In an embodiment, a battery management system 1336 may also include abattery charger 1340, which may recharge a battery 1335. In anillustrative embodiment, an AC adapter 1327 may provide voltage andcurrent to a system power supply 1337. In an embodiment, a system powersupply 1337 may provide voltage and current to the components of theshading object system 1300. In addition, a system power supply 1337 mayprovide voltage and current to a battery charger 1340, which in turn mayprovide power to a rechargeable battery 1335.

In an embodiment, a shading object system may also include acommunications interface. The communications interface may include a USB2.0 or 3.0 device 1324 and a USB or other serial interface module 1325.In an illustrative embodiment, a USC 2.0 or 3.0 device 1324 and/or theserial interface module 1325 may communicate with a processor 1308and/or a battery management subsystem 1336.

In an embodiment, an intelligent shading object system may also includean analog signal conditioning subsystem. In an embodiment, anintelligent shading object system (and the analog signal conditioningsystem) may include a plurality of sensors 1320, reference signalmodules 1321, signal conditioning modules 1323 and an analog-to-digitalconverter 1322. In an embodiment, sensors 1320 may receive analogsignals and transmit the analog signals to signal conditioning modules1323 that are received and processed or conditioned by a signalconditioning modules 1323. In an embodiment, signals may be transmittedand/or transferred by signal conditioning modules 1323 and thentransferred to an A-to-D converter 1322. In an embodiment, a signalreference module 1321 may be a non-volatile memory that stores signalvalues that the received signal values may be compared to in order todetermine if threshold conditions are met. In an embodiment, this mayallow the shading object subsystem to understand if normal conditionsare being experienced, or if an intelligent shading object subsystem isin abnormal conditions, (e.g., high humidity, high movement, high wind,etc.) In embodiments, any of the sensors described above, maycommunicate measurements to a signal conditioning module. Inembodiments, a signal conditioning module may compare these signals toreference signals supplied by and/or stored in a memory. In embodiments,a result of a comparison and/or the sensor measurements may be convertedto digital signals by an A-to-D convert and then transferred to acontroller/processor. The controller and/or processor may determine whatactions to take based on sensor input modules. For example, inembodiments, a processor or controller 1308 may analyze the receivedmeasurements and may determine that a dangerous or out-of-tolerancecondition is occurring. In an embodiment, a processor 1308 may thentransmit a signal to a motor interface module 1370 indicating that ashading object system should be placed in a rest or closed position(e.g., in a position where shading elements are not deployed) and ormoved in a certain fashion.

In an embodiment, a plurality of sensors may also include a thermistor(for measuring wind speed in the shading object environment), a 3D gyroor tilt sensor (for measuring wind resistance in the shading objectenvironment), a 3D accelerometer sensor (for measuring wind resistanceand base stability), a humidity sensor (for measuring humidity in theshading object environment), a temperature sensor (for measuringtemperature in the shading object environment), and/or a light sensor(for measuring sun intensity and/or sun intensity direction).

In an embodiment, an intelligent shading object system 1300 may bemonitoring wind and other potentially dangerous weather conditions on aperiodic, continuous, or as directed basis. In an embodiment, athermistor, 3D gyro or tilt sensor, and/or 3D accelerometer sensor mayreceive readings and generate signals indicating an environmentincluding wind conditions where an intelligent shading object resides.In an embodiment, wind condition and other stability measurementsreceived via sensors may be conditioned by a signal conditioning module1323, compared to reference signals supplied by signal reference module1321, converted to digital signals by a A-to-D converter 1322 andtransferred to a controller or processor 1308. In an embodiment, aprocessor or controller 1308 may analyze the received wind condition orother measurements and may determine that a dangerous orout-of-tolerance condition is occurring. In an embodiment, a processor1308 may then transmit a signal to a stepper motor interface module 1370indicating that a shading object system should be placed in a rest orclosed position (e.g., in a position where shading elements are notdeployed). In an embodiment, a stepper motor interface module 1370 maytransmit a signal, command, and/or instructions to a shade parkingmechanism module 1351. In an embodiment, a shade parking mechanism 1351may cause the shading elements and/or other components of an intelligentshading system to be placed in a closed or rest position where thestability of the shading system is not an issue.

In an embodiment, a processor 1308 may instead determine that one ormore shading elements may be moved in a specific direction and/or placedin a specific orientation so as to avoid a dangerous or out-of-tolerancecondition. In an illustrative embodiment, a processor 1308 may transmita signal, command, and/or provide instructions to a stepper motorinterface 1370, which may communicate with a power amplifier 1371, whichmay transmit a signal to an azimuth stepper motor 1372. In anillustrative embodiment, an azimuth stepper motor 1372 may move ashading object system in a horizontal manner (in this case to moveshading elements (or other components of a shading object system) awayfrom a dangerous or out-of-tolerance weather condition).

In an embodiment, a humidity sensor and/or a temperature sensor of aplurality of sensors 1320 may generate signals indicative of humidityand/or temperature readings in an environment in which a shading systemis installed and/or located. In an embodiment, a signal having a valuesindicative of the temperature and humidity may be conditioned by asignal conditioning module 1323, compared to reference signals from areference module 1321, converted to a digital signal by the A-to-Dconverter 1322 and transferred to a processor and/or controller 1308. Inan embodiment, a processor or controller 1308 may analyze receivedtemperature and/or humidity signals and/or readings, and determinewhether to turn on a cooling and fog system 1351. In an embodiment, acontroller or processor 1308 may transmit a signal to a cooling logicmodule/air conditioning 1350 regarding received temperature and/orhumidity signals. In an embodiment, a cooling module 1350 transmitssignals, commands, and/or instructions which may cause a cooling andmisting system 1351 to turn on and provide fog and/or mist in anintelligent shading object. In an embodiment, a cooling and mistingsystem 1351 may also include a fan. In an embodiment, a controller 1308and/or cooling logic 1307 may determine the intensity and duration ofthe misting or fogging in the environment.

In an embodiment, an intelligent shading object (and/or sections of anintelligent shading object) may be controlled by a number of electronicdevices. For example, in this context, sections may comprise a shadingelement (or shading element), a first motor and controller, a secondmotor and controller, a support unit, a storage unit, a misting system,a Bluetooth unit, a power and/or battery management system, a projectionunit, and/or a base unit. In an embodiment, a controlling electronicdevice may be a remote control, a laptop computer, a cellular phone, asmart phone, a tablet, a digital music player and/or other computingdevices. In an embodiment, one electronic device (or computing device)may control most functions and in another embodiments, one or moreelectronic devices (or computing devices) may control different sectionsof a shading object. This may be beneficial when an electronic devicebecomes non-operational (e.g., loses power or is out of range) or whenonly a specific electronic device may be operated with a specificenvironment.

In an embodiment, a shading object may comprise a wireless digital musicplayer. In an illustrative embodiment, a wireless digital music playermay comprise a Bluetooth MP3 player. In an embodiment, a controller orprocessor may be separate and/or independent of a controller. In anembodiment, a controller or processor and a wireless digital musicplayer may be integrated on a chip. In an embodiment, a wireless digitalmusic player may pair with a digital audio music source. In anembodiment, a digital music player may establish a communication sessionwith a digital audio music source. In an embodiment, a digital audiomusic source may be a smartphone and/or a computing device. After awireless digital music player has established a communication sessionwith a digital audio music source, a digital audio music source maystream digital audio to a wireless digital music player. A wirelessdigital music player may receive digital audio and transmit receiveddigital audio to a speaker for playback. In an embodiment, a wirelessdigital music player may have an integrated speaker, or alternatively, aspeaker assembly may be located on support stand, a base assembly, or ashading element of a shading object. In an embodiment, a wirelessdigital music player may comprise a user interface for controllingoperation, such as up/down volume, pause, turning device on/off. In anembodiment, a shading object may comprise a control panel forcommunicating with and/or controlling operation of a wireless digitalmusic player, such as up/down volume, pause, turning device on/off. Inan embodiment, a digital audio music source (e.g., smartphone) maycomprise a user interface for communicating with and/or controllingoperation of a wireless digital music player.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram and a flow diagram of a shading objectaccording to embodiments. In embodiments, a shading object 1400comprises a microcontroller 896, a GPS solar tracking module 805, amicro climate data module 810, a voice recognition module 815. Inembodiments, a shading object includes a Bluetooth transceiver 865,class D amplifier and stereo speakers 875, an AC adapter 835, arrays ofsolar panels 825, a Lilon/LiPo rechargeable battery 820, a solar MPPTLilon/LiPo Charger or Charging Assembly 830, and DC-to-DC converters1295. In embodiments, a shading object comprises an obstacle detectionmodule 850 and a wind sensor thermistor 817. In embodiments, amicrocontroller 896 may be coupled to an azimuth driver or motorcontroller 880, an elevation driver or motor controller 885, an extenderdriver or motor controller 890, each of which are respectively coupledto a respective DC Brushed motor 212, 121 and 610. In embodiments, oneor more of the DC brushed motors 212, 121 and 610 are coupled and/orconnected to an encoder feedback quadrature and absolute module 1421. Inembodiments, an encoder feedback quadrature and absolute module 1421provides positioning and/or location information about how far a DCbrushed motor 212 and/or gearbox assemblies or linear actuators havemoved in response to commands, instructions, and/or signals from, forexample, the azimuth driver 880. This location and/or positioninformation may be feedback to a microcontroller or processor 896 andthe microcontroller/processor 896 may adjust the commands, instructionsand/or signals directed to, for example, the azimuth driver 880.

In embodiments, a shading object and/or umbrella may comprise a highefficiency LED driver 1115 and LED lights, a system volt and currentsense module and/or circuit 1435, an emergency shutdown switch 1430, adisplay (e.g., OLED display) 1425, a mist generator system 1420, and/ora USB power source. In embodiments, a user may depress an emergencyshutdown switch 1430 to kill or top operations of a shading object. Inembodiments, an emergency shutdown switch and/or an on/off switch may bepressed or depressed to resume and/or restart operation. This allows anoperator and/or individual to stop movement and/or operation of ashading object in emergency situations, such as when electricalmechanical components and/or computing systems are not operating.

In embodiments, a shading object and/or umbrella may comprise a systemvolt & current sense circuit 1435 to determine if a shading object isoperating outside recommended settings, which may result in dangerousoperations. If an out-of-threshold condition is detected by a volt andcurrent sense circuit 1435, a shading object controller may send ashutdown or minimize operation command, instruction and/or signal. Thisfeature may be beneficial if a power source is experiencing spikesand/or surges and may protect components and/or assemblies of a shadingobject. In addition, a volt and current sense circuit 1435 may sense ifcomponents and/or assemblies are drawing too much power (and thuscausing dangerous conditions) and may cause commands to be sent from themotion control PCB 895 to stop and/or minimize operations. In addition,a voltage and current sense circuit 1435 may communicate, e.g., via themotion control PCB 895 or directly, alert commands, signals,instructions and/or messages to a sound reproduction system (amplifierand or speaker 875) and/or a display device (e.g., OLED display 1425).

In embodiments, an AC adapter 835 and one or more arrays of solar panels825 may connect and/or plug-in to a charging assembly 830. Inembodiments, a charging assembly 830 may comprise a MPPT Lilon/LiPoCharging Assembly or Charger. In embodiments, a charging assembly 830may provide power to and/or charge a rechargeable battery. Inembodiments, a rechargeable battery 820 may be a Lilon/LiProrechargeable battery 820. In embodiments, an AC adapter 830 and one ormore arrays of solar panels 825 may charge a rechargeable battery 820(either directly or indirectly). In some circumstances, a power draw(e.g., a voltage and/or current draw) may be too great for only one ofthe AC adapter 830 or one or more arrays of solar panels 825 to providepower. For example, if one or more assemblies of the intelligent shadingobject is moving, a large amount of current is needed to power the motorand/or assemblies and neither the AC adapter nor array of solar panelsmay provide this power. In embodiments, a charging assembly 830 mayprovide power to one or more DC-to-DC converters 1295. In embodiments, arechargeable battery may provide power to one or more DC-to-DCconverters 1295. In embodiments, DC-to-DC converters 1295 may providepower (e.g., voltage and/or current) to other assemblies and/orcomponents in the intelligent shading object or umbrella. For example,the DC-to-DC converter 1296 may provide power to a motion control PCB895, any of the motor assemblies, a computing device 860, and/or asensor module 805 housing telemetry sensors and/or weather variablesensors. In embodiments, some other components may be self-poweredd,e.g., include and/or integrate batteries. In embodiments, an intelligentshading object may also include power storage components, e.g.,capacitors. In embodiments with power storage components, an AC adapterand/or one or more solar arrays may provide power to a power storagecomponents and the power storage components may provide power to arechargeable batteries 820. In embodiments, an AC adapter 835 and/orarrays of solar panels 825 may provide power to a rechargeable battery820, and a rechargeable battery 820 may provide power to power storagecomponents. Continuing with this illustrative embodiment, power storagecomponents may be coupled and/or connected to DC-to-DC converters 1295to provide power to intelligent shading objects assemblies andcomponents. This provides benefit of an intelligent shading object beingable to compensate for high current flow during operations and nothaving to deal with charge/discharge cycles of a rechargeable battery.In embodiments, a charging assembly 830 may monitor power input (e.g.,amount of current flow) from a power source (e.g., AC adapter and/or oneor more array of solar cells. In embodiments, a charging assembly maycommunicate a value and/or measurement (in response to a request orcommand asking for current level) indicating an amount of chargeremaining in a rechargeable battery 820 (e.g., a current level). Inembodiments, a charging assembly 830 may also monitor solar panel arrayoutput and/or efficiency as well as AC power quality.

A computing device may be a server, a computer, a laptop computer, amobile computing device, and/or a tablet. A computing device may, forexample, include a desktop computer or a portable device, such as acellular telephone, a smart phone, a display pager, a radio frequency(RF) device, an infrared (IR) device, a Personal Digital Assistant(PDA), a handheld computer, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a settop box, a wearable computer, an integrated device combining variousfeatures, such as features of the forgoing devices, or the like.

Internal architecture of a computing device includes one or moreprocessors (also referred to herein as CPUs), which interface with atleast one computer bus. Also interfacing with computer bus arepersistent storage medium/media, network interface, memory, e.g., randomaccess memory (RAM), run-time transient memory, read only memory (ROM),etc., media disk drive interface, an interface for a drive that can readand/or write to media including removable media such as floppy, CD-ROM,DVD, etc., media, display interface as interface for a monitor or otherdisplay device, keyboard interface as interface for a keyboard, mouse,trackball and/or pointing device, and other interfaces not shownindividually, such as parallel and serial port interfaces, a universalserial bus (USB) interface, and the like.

Memory, in a computing device and/or an intelligent shading objectsystem, interfaces with computer bus so as to provide information storedin memory to processor during execution of software programs such as anoperating system, application programs, device drivers, and softwaremodules that comprise program code or logic, and/or computer-executableprocess steps, incorporating functionality described herein, e.g., oneor more of process flows described herein. CPU first loadscomputer-executable process steps or logic from storage, e.g., memory1004, storage medium/media, removable media drive, and/or other storagedevice. CPU can then execute the stored process steps in order toexecute the loaded computer-executable process steps. Stored data, e.g.,data stored by a storage device, can be accessed by CPU during theexecution of computer-executable process steps.

Persistent storage medium/media is a computer readable storage medium(s)that can be used to store software and data, e.g., an operating systemand one or more application programs, in a computing device or storagesubsystem of an intelligent shading object. Persistent storagemedium/media also be used to store device drivers, such as one or moreof a digital camera driver, monitor driver, printer driver, scannerdriver, or other device drivers, web pages, content files, metadata,playlists and other files. Persistent storage medium/media 1006 canfurther include program modules/program logic in accordance withembodiments described herein and data files used to implement one ormore embodiments of the present disclosure.

A computing device or a processor or controller may include or mayexecute a variety of operating systems, including a personal computeroperating system, such as a Windows, iOS or Linux, or a mobile operatingsystem, such as iOS, Android, or Windows Mobile, or the like. Acomputing device, or a processor or controller in an intelligent shadingcontroller may include or may execute a variety of possibleapplications, such as a software applications enabling communicationwith other devices, such as communicating one or more messages such asvia email, short message service (SMS), or multimedia message service(MMS), including via a network, such as a social network, including, forexample, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Flickr, or Google+, to provideonly a few possible examples. A computing device or a processor orcontroller in an intelligent shading object may also include or executean application to communicate content, such as, for example, textualcontent, multimedia content, or the like. A computing device or aprocessor or controller in an intelligent shading object may alsoinclude or execute an application to perform a variety of possibletasks, such as browsing, searching, playing various forms of content,including locally stored or streamed content. The foregoing is providedto illustrate that claimed subject matter is intended to include a widerange of possible features or capabilities. A computing device or aprocessor or controller in an intelligent shading object may alsoinclude imaging software applications for capturing, processing,modifying and transmitting image files utilizing the optical device(e.g., camera, scanner, optical reader) within a mobile computingdevice.

Network link typically provides information communication usingtransmission media through one or more networks to other devices thatuse or process the information. For example, network link may provide aconnection through a network (LAN, WAN, Internet, packet-based orcircuit-switched network) to a server, which may be operated by a thirdparty housing and/or hosting service. For example, the server may be theserver described in detail above. The server hosts a process thatprovides services in response to information received over the network,for example, like application, database or storage services. It iscontemplated that the components of system can be deployed in variousconfigurations within other computer systems, e.g., host and server.

For the purposes of this disclosure a computer readable medium storescomputer data, which data can include computer program code that isexecutable by a computer, in machine readable form. By way of example,and not limitation, a computer readable medium may comprise computerreadable storage media, for tangible or fixed storage of data, orcommunication media for transient interpretation of code-containingsignals. Computer readable storage media, as used herein, refers tophysical or tangible storage (as opposed to signals) and includeswithout limitation volatile and non-volatile, removable andnon-removable media implemented in any method or technology for thetangible storage of information such as computer-readable instructions,data structures, program modules or other data. Computer readablestorage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM,flash memory or other solid state memory technology, CD-ROM, DVD, orother optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic diskstorage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other physical ormaterial medium which can be used to tangibly store the desiredinformation or data or instructions and which can be accessed by acomputer or processor.

For the purposes of this disclosure a system or module is a software,hardware, or firmware (or combinations thereof), process orfunctionality, or component thereof, that performs or facilitates theprocesses, features, and/or functions described herein (with or withouthuman interaction or augmentation). A module can include sub-modules.Software components of a module may be stored on a computer readablemedium. Modules may be integral to one or more servers, or be loaded andexecuted by one or more servers. One or more modules may be grouped intoan engine or an application.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods and systems ofthe present disclosure may be implemented in many manners and as suchare not to be limited by the foregoing exemplary embodiments andexamples. In other words, functional elements being performed by singleor multiple components, in various combinations of hardware and softwareor firmware, and individual functions, may be distributed among softwareapplications at either the client or server or both. In this regard, anynumber of the features of the different embodiments described herein maybe combined into single or multiple embodiments, and alternateembodiments having fewer than, or more than, all of the featuresdescribed herein are possible. Functionality may also be, in whole or inpart, distributed among multiple components, in manners now known or tobecome known. Thus, myriad software/hardware/firmware combinations arepossible in achieving the functions, features, interfaces andpreferences described herein. Moreover, the scope of the presentdisclosure covers conventionally known manners for carrying out thedescribed features and functions and interfaces, as well as thosevariations and modifications that may be made to the hardware orsoftware or firmware components described herein as would be understoodby those skilled in the art now and hereafter.

While certain exemplary techniques have been described and shown hereinusing various methods and systems, it should be understood by thoseskilled in the art that various other modifications may be made, andequivalents may be substituted, without departing from claimed subjectmatter. Additionally, many modifications may be made to adapt aparticular situation to the teachings of claimed subject matter withoutdeparting from the central concept described herein. Therefore, it isintended that claimed subject matter not be limited to the particularexamples disclosed, but that such claimed subject matter may alsoinclude all implementations falling within the scope of the appendedclaims, and equivalents thereof.

1. An intelligent shading umbrella, comprising: a sensor module toobtain sensor measurements from one or more sensors coupled to thesensor module; a base assembly; a stem assembly coupled to a baseassembly; a center support assembly coupled to a stem assembly; a firstmemory; a first processor, coupled to the first memory, to communicatecommands and/or signals to one or more of the stem assembly and/or thecenter support assembly to cause movement of one or more of the centersupport assembly and the stem assembly; and a computing device,physically located within the intelligent shading object, the computingdevice comprising: a non-volatile memory having computer-readableinstructions stored thereon; a second memory; and a second processor,coupled to the non-volatile memory, to fetch the computer-readableinstructions from the non-volatile memory, load the computer-readableinstructions into the second memory, and execute the computer-readableinstructions to communicate with external computing devices.
 2. Theintelligent shading umbrella of claim 1, the computing device furthercomprising a WiFi transceiver, wherein the computing device communicateswith the external computing devices through the WiFi transceiver.
 3. Theintelligent shading umbrella of claim 2, the WiFi transceiver furtherhaving the capability of operating as a WiFi hotspot and being acommunication hub for to communicate data to external computing devices.4. The intelligent shading umbrella of claim 1, the computing devicebeing physically located within the center support assembly of theintelligent shading umbrella.
 5. The intelligent shading umbrella, 1 thesecond processor further to communicate commands and/or signals to thefirst processor to cause movement of the one or more of the centersupport assembly and the stem assembly.
 6. The intelligent shadingumbrella of claim 1, further comprising one or more digital cameras, thedigital cameras to capture images and/or video of an area surroundingthe intelligent shading umbrella.
 7. The intelligent shading umbrella ofclaim 1, further comprising storing captured images and/or video in anon-volatile memory of the computing device.
 8. The intelligent shadingumbrella of claim 1, further comprising a WiFi transceiver and furthercomprising receiving streamed image and/or video files from one or moredigital cameras and communicating the streamed image and/or video filesto an external computing device through a WiFi transceiver.
 9. Theintelligent shading umbrella of claim 1, further comprising a digitalcamera, wherein the digital camera comprises an infrared detector andwherein the infrared detector detects moving objects in an environmentnear the intelligent shading object, and if movement is detected, thedigital camera is activated to capture images and/or video.
 10. Theintelligent shading umbrella of claim 1, further comprising a microphoneand a speech recognition engine, wherein the microphone captures voicesignals spoken by a user, the speech recognition engine converts thespeech recognition engine to text and the speech recognition enginecommunicates the command text to the first processor.
 11. Theintelligent shading umbrella of claim 1, further comprising a personalarea network (PAN) transceiver and an audio system, wherein audiosignals are received at the PAN transceiver from an external computingdevice, and the received audio signals are communicated to an audiosystem for playback on one or more speakers.
 12. The intelligent shadingumbrella of claim 1, wherein the computing device is a node in anInternet of Things (iOT), and the intelligent shading object is part ofone or more of a smart grid, a smart homes, an intelligenttransportation system or a smart city and communicates with the one ormore smart grid, smart home, intelligent transportation system, or asmart city via a WiFi transceiver.
 13. The intelligent shading umbrellaof claim 1, further comprising receiving, at the computing device,measurements from a digital compass or a global positioning systemreceiver, analyzing the received measurements, and generating commandsand/or instructions to be sent to the first processor to cause movementof one or more of the center support assembly and the stem assembly. 14.The intelligent shading umbrella of claim 1, further comprising, at thecomputing device, receiving spoken audio signals, communicating thespoken audio signals to an external artificial intelligence engine,receiving back text or another digital representation corresponding tothe spoken audio signals from the external artificial intelligenceengine, and communicating the responses to a speech synthesizer, whichgenerates sound signals to be reproduced by one or more speakers. 15.The intelligent shading umbrella of claim 1, further comprisingreceiving, at the computing device, measurements from the sensor module,analyzing the received measurements, and generating commands and/orinstructions to be communicated to the sensor module to cause the sensormodule to obtain additional sensor measurements.
 16. An articlecomprising: a non-transitory computer readable medium having storedtherein computer implementable instructions executable by a processor ofa computing device located within an intelligent shading object to:receive sensor measurements communicated from a sensor module in theintelligent shading object; analyze the received sensor measurements todetermine movements of one or more intelligent shading objectassemblies; and communicate instructions identifying movements to one ormore intelligent shading object assemblies, the movements based on theanalyzed sensor measurements.
 17. The article of claim 16, furtherhaving computer implementable instructions executable by the processorof the computing device located within the intelligent shading objectto: store received sensor measurements in a non-volatile memory of thecomputing device located within the shading object.
 18. The article ofclaim 16, further having computer implementable instructions executableby the processor of the computing device located within the intelligentshading object to: communicate received sensor measurements to anexternal computing device utilizing a WiFi transceiver.
 19. The articleof claim 16, further having computer implementable instructionsexecutable by the processor of the computing device located within theintelligent shading object to: generate voice response instructionsbased on the sensor readings; and communicate the voice responseinstructions to an audio system for playback on one or more speakers.20. The article of claim 16, further having computer implementableinstructions executable by the processor of the computing device locatedwithin the intelligent shading object to: receive image and/or videofiles captured by one or cameras, the one or more cameras being locatedwithin or on the intelligent shading object and storing the receivedimage and/or video files in a memory of the computing device.
 21. Anintelligent shading umbrella, comprising: a base assembly; an umbrellasupport assembly coupled to a base assembly; a first memory; a firstprocessor, coupled to the first memory, to communicate commands and/orsignals to the umbrella support assembly to cause movement of theumbrella support assembly; and a computing device, physically enclosedwithin the intelligent shading object, the computing device comprising:a non-volatile memory having computer-readable instructions storedthereon; a second memory; a second processor, coupled to thenon-volatile memory and the second memory, to fetch thecomputer-readable instructions from the non-volatile memory, load thecomputer-readable instructions into the second memory, and execute thecomputer-readable instructions to communicate with external computingdevices and/or to generate commands and/or signals to the firstprocessor to request movements of the umbrella shading assembly.